Comprehensive Arthritis Care in Dallas-Fort Worth

Spine Surgery / Conditions We Treat / Arthritis

Page Updated: November 7, 2024

Arthritis is a broad term used to describe various conditions affecting the joints, causing pain and inflammation. 1 in 5 American adults has been diagnosed with arthritis¹ with symptoms that can be constant or may flare up periodically. At DFW Spine Institute, our specialists are experts in diagnosing and treating various forms of arthritis. We are dedicated to helping patients in the Dallas-Fort Worth area manage their arthritis symptoms and improve their quality of life. Our team is committed to providing comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s needs.

What is Arthritis?
Types of Arthritis
Diagnosing Arthritis
Arthritis Treatments
FAQs about Arthritis

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a prevalent condition characterized by joint pain or joint disease.² With more than 150 different types, symptoms of arthritis often include swelling and stiffness in the joints, tendons, muscles, ligaments, and bones, as well as chronic pain, and decreased range of motion. These symptoms can vary from mild to severe, worsening over time, especially as people age. If left untreated, arthritis can cause permanent joint damage, leading to severe pain and impairing the ability to perform daily activities.

Types of Arthritis

There are many different types of arthritis, each with unique causes and characteristics. Some of the most common types of arthritis include:

Degenerative Arthritis

The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis.³ This condition occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears away, causing bone-on-bone contact. This friction leads to pain, swelling, and stiffness. Severe cases may significantly impact quality of life, sometimes necessitating joint replacement surgery. Preventative measures include maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and avoiding injuries.

Inflammatory Arthritis

Inflammatory arthritis arises when the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing inflammation. This can lead to joint erosion and damage to internal organs, eyes, and other parts of the body. Rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis are common examples. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are crucial for managing these conditions.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the joints. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is caused by wear and tear, RA is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the synovium—the lining of the membranes that surround the joints. This results in inflammation that can eventually lead to damaged joints and deformity.

Infectious Arthritis

Infectious arthritis occurs when a virus, bacterium, or fungus infects a joint, leading to inflammation. This type of arthritis can often be treated with antibiotics, but severe cases may require additional interventions. Common culprits include organisms like Shigella, Salmonella, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Hepatitis C.

Metabolic Arthritis

This type of arthritis, also known as gout, occurs when the body produces an excess of uric acid, a byproduct of purine breakdown. When uric acid builds up, it can form sharp, crystalline needles in the joints, causing intense pain or gout attacks. Without proper management, gout can become chronic and debilitating.

Diagnosing Arthritis

Diagnosing arthritis typically begins with a physical examination, followed by blood tests or imaging scans. Our pain management specialist will assess symptoms and medical history to determine the specific type of arthritis and develop an appropriate treatment plan to meet your needs.

Arthritis Treatments

Treatment options for arthritis aim to manage symptoms, provide pain relief and improve affected joint function. Options include:

Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for inflammatory types.
Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen muscles around joints, improve range of motion, and reduce pain.
Lifestyle Changes: Weight management, regular physical activity, and a healthy diet.
Surgical Options: Joint repair, joint replacement, or joint fusion for severe arthritic cases.

FAQs about Arthritis

Can arthritis be cured?

While there is no cure for arthritis, many treatments can help manage symptoms and improve mobility in your body and quality of life.

What causes arthritis?

Causes vary by type but can include genetic factors, age, joint injuries, and immune system dysfunctions.

How is arthritis diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a physical exam, medical history, blood tests, and imaging scans such as X-rays or MRIs.

What treatments are available for arthritis?

Treatments include medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery.

Can diet affect arthritis symptoms?

Yes, a healthy diet can help manage symptoms. Certain foods have anti-inflammatory properties, while others can exacerbate inflammation.

Schedule a Consultation

For more information or to schedule an appointment with our specialists at DFW Spine Institute, contact us today. Our board-certified pain management specialist, Dr. Renaud Rodrigue, is dedicated to providing comprehensive care to help you manage arthritis and improve your quality of life.

¹CDC. Arthritis Basics. Available: https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/index.html#. Accessed Nov 7, 2024.
²NIH. Arthritis. Available: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/arthritis#. Accessed May 28, 2024.
³Mayo Clinic. Osteoarthritis. Available: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoarthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351925. Accessed May 28, 2024.

The Doctors at DFW Laser Spine Institute have either authored or reviewed and approved this content.