What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a term used to describe pain and swelling that occurs in the joints and is not one sole condition. There are several different types of arthritis with varying causes. People with this condition experience inflammation and swelling in the joints, as well as a limited ability to do daily activities because of reduced mobility and flexibility.

The good news is that this condition is manageable. With proper arthritis care and early targeted treatments, patients can go on to live healthy, vibrant lives by preventing this issue from developing into a chronic and lifelong issue. 

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Types of Arthritis

There are several types of arthritis and various causes for the conditions. These different types are:

• Degenerative
  • This condition breaks down the cushioning surface of the joints, causing unprotected bones to rub against each other. Over time, this friction causes inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and pain in the joint. 

• Inflammatory
  • Inflammatory types arise when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joints and causes severe inflammation. 

• Infectious
  • These types result from bacteria, viruses, or fungi entering the joint, causing infection. These types are treatable with antibiotics or other medications.

• Metabolic
  • Also referred to as gouty arthritis, it is caused by a buildup of excess uric acid in the body. The uric acid crystallizes in the joints and causes sudden, sharp pain. 

While each type of the condition has unique symptoms and causes, most arthritis types will cause joint pain with swelling and reduced movement.

How Doctor Emi^SM Can Help

Dr. Emi is an expert at treating the root causes of disease and chronic conditions. Because of this, treatment for arthritis includes integrative and holistic methods such as lifestyle changes, physical therapies, and nutritional guidance to help address deficiencies with supplements as needed. 

For patients with metabolic types, dietary counseling is exceptionally effective. In other cases, genetic testing may be the key to fine-tuning treatment to your specific needs. Dr. Emi may also suggest immunosuppressive medications for Inflammatory arthritis and will help ease pain and discomfort with anti-inflammatories and pain medication. 

For advanced cases, Dr. Emi can counsel you on appropriate surgical options to repair or replace damaged joints.