Arthritis – Types And Treatments
Arthritis is a common condition which affects approximately 10 million people throughout the UK (source: NHS).
It causes inflammation and pain in the joints of the body and causes increasing problems as a person ages.
Diagnosis is more common in older people (from 40s onwards), but can effect anybody at any age, including children.
However, it is more common in women and people with a family history of the condition.
Long-term, arthritis is unfortunately something that an individual has to live with.
And as a Rheumatologist, Dr Naveen Bhadauria is an expert in the treatment of pain management for arthritis.
In this post, we take a quick look at the various types of arthritis Dr Bhadauria treats and how.
Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic Arthritis is most prevalent in individuals who suffer from the skin condition psoriasis.
It causes sufferers to experience pain, stiffness and swelling around the joints, and red, inflamed skin that is prone to flaking.
Treatment for Psoriatic Arthritis aims to slow down the spread of the condition which can improve the quality of life for the patient.
There are three main treatments Dr Bhadauria offers:
1. non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
2. corticosteroids, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
3. biological therapies
In addition to these, Dr Bhadauria may offer medications such as cream, retinoid tablets and phototherapy.
Osteoarthritis
A disease of the joint, Osteoarthritis is the most common of this chronic condition.
There is no cure, so regular exercise, weight management and good footwear is often essential.
This will help minimise the pain and discomfort.
In addition to this, postural awareness and not staying in one position for too long is advisable to manage the pain day to day.
If you’ve been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis, Dr Bhadauria can offer lifestyle advice to help you live more comfortably with the condition.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
A long-term condition, Rheumatoid Arthritis is common in the hands, feet and wrists.
Sufferers will experience pain and stiffness that varies, otherwise known as flare-ups.
To help control the condition a little more, Dr Bhadauria can offer medication or physiotherapy.
Ultimately, most patients want to avoid surgery however possible.
So, the various treatments available are best discussed as early on as possible following diagnosis.
Dr Bhadauria believes strongly in helping his patients feel as informed as possible before, during and after their treatment.
For more information or to book an appointment, do not hesitate to get in touch.
Article by Dr. Naveen Bhadauria