Experienced Rheumatologists in Houston TX, Can Help You Live More Comfortably With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system – which normally attacks foreign invaders such as bacteria and viruses – to mistakenly attack healthy joint tissue. Most often, rheumatoid arthritis affects the hands, wrists, elbows, hips, knees, ankles and feet. The arthritis is usually symmetrical, which means the same joints on both sides of the body are affected.
The precise causes of rheumatoid arthritis are unknown. Some experts believe that certain factors, such as stress, tobacco use and infection, may trigger the immune system to inadvertently target the joints.
What are the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?
When attacked by the immune system, a joint’s soft lining (synovial membrane) can become thickened and inflamed, leading to pain, swelling, warmth, redness and loss of joint function. If left untreated, rheumatoid arthritis can ultimately damage the protective joint cartilage, which normally cushions the ends of the bones in the joint. As the cartilage breaks down and wears away, the unprotected bone surfaces may begin to erode as well, eventually changing the shape and structure of the joint.
How is rheumatoid arthritis treated?
As the rheumatoid arthritis progresses, once joint damage occurs, it cannot be reversed. Therefore, the main goals of treatment are to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, prevent joint damage, and enhance mobility. Some common strategies include:
- Medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologics and steroids
- Physical therapy, which may include stretches, exercises, hot/cold therapy and therapeutic massage
- Occupational therapy, which offers strategies on how to more easily perform daily tasks
- Regular exercise to strengthen the muscles that support damaged joints
- Joint replacement surgery
Early, aggressive treatment for rheumatoid arthritis is the key to achieving good results. If you have questions or would like to discuss your symptoms and treatment options with a rheumatologist, contact Advanced Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine in Houston, Texas, today.
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1Professional Building II At North Cypress Medical Center
AOSM Physical Therapy
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2North Cypress Professional Building At Lakewood Crossing
AOSM Physical Therapy -
3North Cypress Professional Building At Towne Lake
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4Advanced Orthopaedics Memorial
What Our Patients Are Saying
Dr. Alain Elbaz is one of the most progressive orthopedic surgeons in the state. I’ve received PRP injections and hyaluronic acid injections in my aging and damaged joints allowing me to continue my daily jogging
I was in pain for a couple of months and went to see Dr. Cubbage. He knew right away by the way my posture what the issue was. He had me scheduled in and he along with his staff were awesome.
Dr. Patel has been great at my pain relief. She doesn’t force me to take any meds I don’t want, or injections. She will give me the injection I want when I need it. Great friendly Doctor.
I had been in so much pain with my back for years. It got so bad that I knew I had to do something. I went to Dr Mohr for help. I was so afraid to have spine surgery as I had heard so many horror stories.
Dr. Patel is a very good Pain Management Doctor. She is one of my favorite doctors.
I have been a patient of Dr. Cubbage for several years. Each time of go there, he always presents a thorough plan of care. From ordering the most appropriate diagnostic tests to making sure you understand
I just think that this is the best health care facility to this day. I truly appreciate all the PT, so far they are consider it.
Dr. Blalock did surgery on my broken wrist on Tuesday. I liked him a lot as did my husband. Took time to explain everything in detail even though his phone was ringing non-stop.
I’ve been with this orthopedic group since 2014. I’ve never had a bad experience with the doctors or the staff. Dr. Drew Fehsenfeld did my shoulder surgery in 2016 and he did great!
It has been eight weeks since my partial knee replacement and now I realized just how much I was missing. Having it done has made such a difference to my life. For a start my leg is now straight and my knees actually touch!