Are you dealing with pain when walking down stairs, getting out of bed, or before your next round of golf or pickup basketball game? Arthritis may be the cause.
This common joint condition affects nearly 56 million adults in the U.S. It develops over time and often shows up as pain with certain movements. Arthritis impacts how joints move and handle pressure, making everyday activities like walking, standing, or sitting uncomfortable.
There are several types of arthritis, and understanding which one you have is the first step toward the right treatment plan.
Read on to learn more about the different types of arthritis and available treatment options from joint specialist Dr. Neil Soehnlen and the rest of the OrthoUnited team.
What Is Happening Inside the Joint
Arthritis comes down to how the joint functions under load. Cartilage sits between bones and acts as a shock absorber. It allows smooth movement and helps reduce the force that travels through the joint.
Over time, cartilage can wear down. As that protective layer diminishes, more pressure is placed directly on the bone, leading to irritation and inflammation.
This is why movement starts to feel different. The joint still functions, though it no longer handles stress the way it once did.
The Different Types of Arthritis
Arthritis presents in several forms, each with its own cause, symptoms, and treatment approach.
Osteoarthritis (Wear-and-Tear Arthritis)
Osteoarthritis develops as cartilage gradually breaks down. It is the most common form and typically affects weight-bearing joints like the hips and knees. Pain often appears during activity and improves with rest, though this pattern can progress over time.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (Autoimmune)
Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system attacks joint tissue. This leads to inflammation that can affect multiple joints at once. Swelling and stiffness are often persistent, and symptoms may extend beyond a single joint.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis
A prior injury can change how a joint moves. Over time, this altered movement creates uneven wear, which may lead to arthritis years after the initial injury.
Other Inflammatory Forms
Conditions such as gout and psoriatic arthritis also affect the joints. Each follows a different pattern, though inflammation remains a central factor.
Arthritis Treatment Options
When you meet with an OrthoUnited joint specialist, treatment follows a stepwise approach that begins with the least invasive options.
We Start With Conservative Care
Initial treatment focuses on simple, effective strategies:
- Low-Impact Activity: Walking, cycling, or water exercise helps maintain strength without placing excess strain on the joints. Avoiding movement often leads to increased stiffness.
- Medications: Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or naproxen can help manage inflammation.
- Weight Management: Even modest weight loss can significantly reduce pressure on the hips and knees over time.
- Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises improve strength, stability, and joint function.
When Injections Make Sense
If symptoms persist, injections may provide more direct relief.
Cortisone injections help reduce inflammation and offer temporary pain relief. Other options, such as hyaluronic acid, aim to improve joint lubrication, though results vary.
These treatments do not reverse arthritis, though they can improve comfort and mobility for a period of time.
When Surgery Becomes the Next Step
Surgery is considered only after conservative treatments no longer provide relief.
The goal is to restore function and reduce pain that limits daily activity. Options range from minimally invasive procedures to total joint replacement.
For advanced joint conditions, OrthoUnited offers comprehensive care through hip specialists, knee specialists, and a dedicated total joint replacement team.
When It Makes Sense to Get Checked
Joint pain does not always require immediate care, though certain patterns should not be ignored.
Persistent or recurring pain is one indicator. Limited movement or difficulty using a joint as you normally would is another. Discomfort that does not improve with rest may also signal a more serious issue that may require surgery.
An evaluation helps clarify the cause and identify the most appropriate next steps.
Explore Treatment Options with Dr. Soehnlen
Dr. Soehnlen works with patients experiencing joint pain and arthritis, helping them understand their symptoms and choose treatment options that align with their goals. He employs modern techniques, including anterior hip replacement, robotic joint replacement, and outpatient joint replacement, to get the best outcomes for his patients.
Appointments are available with Dr. Soehlen at the OMNI, Dover, and Fairlawn campuses, making it easier to access care close to home. Schedule online or call your preferred campus location today to schedule your appointment!
