Arthritis Specialist

Internists and Primary Care located in Silver Spring, MD

Internists located in Silver Spring, MD

You don’t have to live simply with the pain and discomfort caused by your arthritis. Anuradha Arun, MD, at PrimeCare Medicine in Silver Spring, Maryland, provides treatment to help manage your arthritis symptoms and help you enjoy your life without discomfort. For expert medical management of your arthritis, call today or schedule an appointment using the online booking button.

301-593-9800

Arthritis Q & A

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a general medical term that refers to over 100 different types of health conditions that cause inflammation or pain in your joints. Arthritis can affect anyone at any time, but it more commonly affects women and the elderly.

Symptoms of arthritis include pain, swelling, redness, or limited range of motion in one or more of your joints. The severity of symptoms varies from mild to severe, but generally, worsen over time.

Starting medical treatment for your arthritis early may help prevent progression of the disease and permanent damage to your joints.

What are the common types of arthritis?

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the two most common types of arthritis.

Osteoarthritis

Of all the different types of arthritis, osteoarthritis is the most common. This type of joint pain is caused by the wearing away of the cartilage in between your joints, causing the bones to rub together.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack the lining of your joints, known as the synovium. When left untreated, the chronic inflammation causes your joint to break down, leading to permanent damage.

Other types of arthritis include gout, psoriatic arthritis, and fibromyalgia.

How is arthritis diagnosed?

Dr. Anuradha Arun and her team at PrimeCare Medicine conduct a thorough and detailed examination to diagnose your joint discomfort. In addition to the physical exam and review of your medical and family history, she may also recommend:

Blood and urine test
Radiology testing such as X-rays, MRIs, or a CT scan

Dr. Arun may also recommend testing the fluid in your joints.

What treatments are available for my arthritis?

Treatment for your arthritis may depend on the type of arthritis you have and your symptoms. To assist in pain control and inflammation, Dr. Arun may recommend various medications, such as:

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs
Corticosteroids
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for rheumatoid arthritis
Topical creams

Dr. Arun may also refer you to physical therapy to improve range of motion, and strength and mobility of the muscles surrounding your joints.

If you’re carrying excess weight, Dr. Arun may recommend a weight-loss program to help ease stress on your joints to not only reduce pain but also slow the progression of your disease.

Arthritis is a common health condition, but you don’t have to suffer from the pain. For compassionate care and help with your pain, call PrimeCare Medicine or use the online booking feature today to schedule an appointment.

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