Arthritis Doctor in Sugar Land, TX

Answering Your Pressing Arthritis Questions

Receiving an arthritis diagnosis can be scary. Living with this condition can be frustrating, especially when you have lots of questions about managing and treating your symptoms. At Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists, we’re dedicated to helping you live a comfortable life. We work with Sugar Land, TX patients to find effective treatments for this debilitating condition. Browse our frequently asked questions below or give us a call to learn more.

What Is Arthritis?

In general, arthritis is a condition that causes chronic pain, inflammation, and stiffness in one or more joints. Symptoms can be minor, or they can make everyday tasks difficult. Keep in mind, this is a very basic definition of the disease. Arthritis will have a slightly different impact on each patient, and individualized treatment is essential.

What Are the Symptoms of Arthritis?

Depending on which type of arthritis you’re diagnosed with, you may experience different symptoms. However, be on the lookout for these common signs of the condition:

• Joint pain
• Unexplained stiffness
• Redness
• Swelling
• Difficulty moving or reduced range of motion
• Fatigue

What Does Arthritis Feel Like?

Everyone experiences arthritis differently, so it’s difficult to give a general summary about what having this condition feels like. Typically, the level of pain varies daily, and some joints may be affected more severely than others. Some patients also experienced weight loss and fever alongside the common symptoms of arthritis. It’s important to communicate to your doctor what arthritis feels like to you so you can receive a proper diagnosis.

Why Do Joints Make Cracking and Popping Noises?

Sometimes popping your joints is no cause for concern. Normal “popping” sounds are the result of pushing air pockets out of the joints. However, cracking joints might require medical attention. These noises could indicate torn cartilage or broken bone fragments. Always talk to a professional if you’re unsure of the severity.

What Types of Doctors Treat Arthritis?

Family doctors are more than capable of giving you some basic information about arthritis. However, many cases require the attention of a specialized healthcare professional. Rheumatologists, occupational therapists, and podiatrists, like the ones at Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists, are all excellent choices for arthritis treatment.

Do I Have Arthritis?

Arthritis is a complicated condition, and it’s difficult to say whether or not someone has arthritis without an extensive evaluation. If you’re experiencing multiple symptoms, it’s a good idea to seek a professional diagnosis. The team at Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists has years of experience recognizing the signs of arthritis and providing treatment.

What Treatments Are Available?

Fortunately, arthritis patients have numerous options for treatment. Some methods don’t require any changes to your daily life, while others involve lifestyle modifications. At Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists, we’ll explore each treatment option to find one that works for you and your unique needs. Typical treatments include:

• Medication
• Physical therapy
• Braces
• Additional exercise
• Weight loss
• Surgery

Is Exercise Good for Arthritis Pain?

Choosing arthritis-friendly exercises can go a long way to relieving some of your symptoms. Be sure to speak with your doctor to learn more about your specific needs. We often recommend staying as active as you can and adapting exercises to your arthritis symptoms. Feeling slight pain or stiffness is normal for arthritis patients beginning a new exercise regimen. Remember, some physical activity is always better than none.

How Can I Prevent Arthritis?

There are a few preventative measures you can take to minimize your risk of developing this disease. Losing weight and stopping smoking are each lifestyle changes you can make to lessen your chances of arthritis in the future. We also recommend taking special care to avoid joint injuries whenever possible.

Contact Us for More Information

Do you have additional questions and arthritis in feet or ankles? Don’t hesitate to contact Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists. We’re glad to walk you through your diagnosis and treatment options. Our team understands the challenges that come while living with arthritis, and we hope to make your life a little easier with less pain and discomfort.