Arthritis

Joint pain affects more than 50 million adults and is the leading cause of disability in the United States. Constantine K. Saadeh, MD, FAAAAI, FACP, FACR, and the team of practitioners at Allergy A.R.T.S. in Amarillo, Texas, offer integrative treatments for arthritis to reduce joint pain and improve quality of life. Call the office today or use the online booking feature to start treatment.

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a chronic health condition affecting your joints, and more than 100 types of arthritis exist. It’s the number one cause of disability in the United States and is characterized by:

• Decreased range of motion
• Joint pain
• Joint stiffness
• Redness
• Joint swelling
  

Common types of arthritis include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and involves wear and tear joint damage often associated with aging. Rheumatoid arthritis causes your immune system to attack joint capsules, destroying bone and joint cartilage.

What causes arthritis?

Risk factors that increase your chances of developing arthritis include:

• Being a woman (for rheumatoid arthritis)
• Being a man (for gout)
• Aging
• A family history of arthritis
• Previous joint injuries
• Being overweight or obese
  

If left untreated, arthritis can progress and cause deformed or twisted joints. If you have arthritis, you may have trouble completing daily tasks, sitting straight, exercising, and even walking comfortably.

What is the treatment for arthritis?

There isn’t a cure for arthritis, but the Allergy A.R.T.S. team helps manage symptoms, delay the condition's progression, and improve your quality of life.

Your provider may recommend traditional or alternative arthritis treatment options, such as:

• Arthritis medications
• Physical therapy
• Yoga or tai chi
• Wearing splints or braces
• Heat or cold treatment
• Dietary supplements or changes in diet
• Acupuncture or massage therapy
• Low-impact exercises, such as biking or swimming
• Weight loss if you’re overweight
• Surgery in severe cases
  
  

The team uses a holistic approach to treat arthritis and recommends the least invasive treatment option first. That’s because certain prescription arthritis medications can cause unpleasant side effects.

Your provider will develop a treatment plan you’re comfortable with that minimizes disease progression. They stay up-to-date on the latest dietary research and may recommend simple dietary changes, such as eating more fruits and veggies and cutting added sugar. Also, aim to participate in at least 30 minutes of low-impact exercise daily if your provider gives you the OK.

To learn more about the range of traditional and alternative treatments available for arthritis, call Allergy A.R.T.S., or use the online booking to schedule a consultation today.