Pain Management located in Denver, CO
Arthritis is one of the most common causes of joint pain and can lead to mobility problems. Brian J. Fuller, MD, provides expert, customized treatments for arthritis at Mountain Spine & Pain Physicians located in Denver. If you have joint pain that’s interfering with your quality of life, call Mountain Spine & Pain Physicians or make an appointment online today.
Arthritis is a collective term for over 100 different conditions that cause joint pain, swelling, and mobility problems. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout are three of the most common types of arthritis.
Osteoarthritis — a degenerative type of the disease — develops as the cartilage that cushions and lubricates your joints wears away. As your bones rub together, they create friction which irritates and inflames your joints, leading to swelling and pain.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that attacks your joints and thickens your synovial lining. The disease causes painful inflammation around your joints, which can interfere with your mobility. Rheumatoid arthritis can damage your cartilage and the bones in your joints.
Gout is an inflammatory joint condition that develops when uric acid crystal deposits accumulate in your joints. Gout most often affects the joint of your big toe, although it can develop in any joint of your body. Gout usually emerges in intensely painful attacks that make you feel like your toe is on fire.
Many factors contribute to arthritis. For example, your genetics and family medical history contribute to your risk of developing any type of arthritis.
Osteoarthritis is often age-related, although being overweight or having a knee injury or surgery can increase your risk.
Medical researchers are still studying the causes of rheumatoid arthritis. However, they believe that your hormones and environmental factors could contribute to your risk. Your risk of gout is compounded by your diet and certain medical conditions and medications.
If you have arthritis, Dr. Fuller works with you to implement a treatment plan to alleviate your pain, improve your mobility, and restore your quality of life. Depending on the type of arthritis causing your pain, Dr. Fuller may provide joint injections to reduce inflammation in your joints.
He can also help you adjust your diet to lose weight and reduce the physical stress on your joints. In all cases, talk to Dr. Fuller about how to incorporate exercise into your daily routine.
If you’re concerned about arthritis, call Mountain Spine & Pain Physicians or schedule a consultation online today.