Arthritis is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide and is characterized by inflammation, pain, and joint stiffness. The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis is caused by the wear and tear of the joints over time, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in the joints. Irrespective of the cause and type of illness, it will be ideal for you to contact Maryville, IL podiatrists for treatment and cure of arthritis.
There are several different treatment options available for arthritis, including both non-surgical and surgical options. Below are some of the surgical options for arthritis:
- Joint replacement surgery
The joint replacement surgery procedure involves replacing a damaged joint with a prosthetic joint. The most common joints that are returned are the hips and knees.
- Joint fusion
Joint fusion involves fusing two bones to eliminate the movement of the joint, which can help to reduce pain.
- Osteotomy
The osteotomy involves cutting and reshaping bones to realign the joints and reduce joint stress.
- Arthroscopy
Such a procedure involves using a small camera to view the inside of the joint and make repairs.
If surgical options are not effective, then non-surgical options may be considered. These include:
- Medications
Several medications can be used to treat arthritis, including over-the-counter pain relievers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).
- Physical therapy
Physical therapy can help to improve the strength and flexibility of the joints, which can help to reduce pain and improve mobility. Physical therapy exercises may include stretching, strengthening, and low-impact cardio exercises.
- Occupational therapy
Occupational therapy can teach patients how to perform daily activities with less pain and more efficiency. The therapist will guide how to adjust your home or work environment to minimize joint stress.
- Weight management
Maintaining a healthy weight can help to reduce the stress on the joints, which can help to reduce pain and improve mobility.
- Heat and cold therapy
Applying heat or cold to the affected joint can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
It is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for arthritis. The best treatment plan will depend on the type of arthritis, the severity of the condition, and the individual patient’s needs and preferences.
In addition to the above treatments, several complementary therapies may help manage arthritis symptoms. These include acupuncture, yoga, massage, chiropractic care, etc. It is important to note that while these therapies may be helpful, they should be used in conjunction with traditional treatments and not as a replacement.