Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of arthritis that affects the joints in your spine. It usually develops in your sacroiliac joints (where the bottom of your spine joins your pelvis). It causes typical arthritis symptoms like pain and stiffness, but it can also cause digestive symptoms, rashes and weight loss.
What is ankylosing spondylitis?
Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that affects joints in your spine. Healthcare providers sometimes call it axial spondylarthritis.
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) also affects the joints where the base of your spine meets your pelvis (your sacroiliac joints). Your sacroiliac joints are the connection between your spine and pelvis. Specifically, they’re the place where the sacrum (the triangle-shaped last section of your spine) meets the ilium (the top and back part of your pelvis).
The sacroiliac joints are some of the biggest joints in your body, and you use them every time you move or shift your hips.
It’s less common, but ankylosing spondylitis can affect other joints, including your:
Ankylosing spondylitis causes pain, stiffness and gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. Visit a healthcare provider if you’re experiencing lower back pain, especially if it’s getting worse or making it hard to do all your usual daily activities.
What are ankylosing spondylitis symptoms?
Everyone with ankylosing spondylitis experiences a unique combination of symptoms. Lower back pain due to sacroiliitis (painful inflammation in your sacroiliac joints) is the most common AS symptom.
The pain can spread (radiate). You might experience other types of pain, including:
Other ankylosing spondylitis symptoms can include:
Stiffness or trouble moving your hips and lower back (especially first thing in the morning or after you’ve been resting in one position for a long time).
Ankylosing spondylitis is an autoimmune disease. Autoimmune diseases happen when your immune system attacks your body instead of protecting it.
Experts aren’t certain what causes ankylosing spondylitis. Studies have found that specific genetic mutations are closely linked to having AS. Genetic mutations are changes to your DNA sequence that happen when your cells divide to make copies of themselves.
There are more than 60 mutated genes that might cause AS. One example is the human leukocyte antigen-B (HLA-B27) gene. More than 90% of white people who have AS also have a mutated HLA-B27 gene.
What are the risk factors?
Anyone can develop ankylosing spondylitis, but certain groups of people are more likely to have it, including:
People younger than 40 (more than 80% of people with AS are diagnosed when they’re around 30).
What are the complications of ankylosing spondylitis?
People with ankylosing spondylitis have a higher risk of spinal fractures (broken bones in your spine).
Other complications can include:
Fused vertebrae (bones in your spine joining together).
Kyphosis (a forward curve in your spine).
Osteoporosis.
Eye and vision issues like uveitis or light sensitivity.
Heart issues, including aortitis, arrhythmia and cardiomyopathy.
Nerve damage.
How do providers diagnose ankylosing spondylitis?
A healthcare provider will diagnose ankylosing spondylitis with a physical exam. They’ll examine your body and discuss your symptoms. Tell your provider when you first noticed pain or other symptoms, including if any time of day or activity makes them worse.
You might need to visit a rheumatologist, a healthcare provider who specializes in treating arthritis and similar conditions.
What tests do healthcare providers use to diagnose ankylosing spondylitis?
There’s no one test that can confirm you have AS. Your provider might use a few tests to help diagnose it, including:
Sacroiliac joint and spine X-rays to check for signs of arthritis.
Blood tests to check for the mutated HLA-B27 gene.
How is ankylosing spondylitis treated?
Your healthcare provider will suggest treatments to manage your symptoms and reduce how much they affect your daily routine.
Common treatments for ankylosing spondylitis include:
Exercise: Regular physical activity can reduce stiffness and stop AS from getting worse. Many people experience more severe pain when they’re inactive. A physical therapist can suggest specific stretches and exercises to help strengthen the muscles that support your back and spine.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter (OTC) NSAIDs, including ibuprofen and naproxen ease pain and inflammation. Talk to your provider before taking NSAIDs for more than 10 days in a row
Biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs): Biologic DMARDs are prescription medications that reduce inflammation and pain. They might also stop AS from getting worse.
Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids are prescription anti-inflammatory medications. You might need cortisone shots (an injection of corticosteroids directly into your affected joints).
Surgery: It’s rare to need surgery to treat AS. Your provider will usually only suggest it if you have severe symptoms that don’t get better after trying other treatments.
How soon will I feel better?
You should start feeling better soon after starting treatment. Your symptoms might not completely go away, but they should improve as you find treatments that work for you. Ask your provider when to expect improvements. Exercise and physical therapy are a gradual process, and medications take different amounts of time to take effect.
What can I expect if I have ankylosing spondylitis?
Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic (long-term) condition. You should expect to manage your symptoms for a long time (maybe the rest of your life). Some people with AS have periods of remission where they have fewer, or milder, symptoms. Even if it’s been a while since you experienced symptoms, there’s always a chance they can come back.
There’s no cure for AS (or any other type of arthritis), but that doesn’t mean you have to live in pain. Talk to your provider about what you’re feeling. Tell them how much your symptoms impact your ability to do your favorite activities.
How do I take care of myself?
In addition to following your AS treatment regimen, there are some steps you can take to reduce inflammation in your body and stress on your joints:
Follow a diet and exercise plan that’s healthy for you.
Visit your healthcare provider if you notice new symptoms, or if your symptoms get worse. Talk to your provider if it feels like your treatments aren’t managing your symptoms as well as they used to.
See a healthcare provider if you experience any of the following symptoms:
What questions should I ask my healthcare provider?
Questions to ask your provider include:
Do I have ankylosing spondylitis or another type of arthritis?
Will I need genetic testing?
Which treatments will manage my symptoms?
Will I need physical therapy?
A note from QBan Health Care Services
Managing any type of arthritis can be frustrating. If you have ankylosing spondylitis, it’s a literal pain in the back. Pain, stiffness and other symptoms can take a toll on your day-to-day energy levels, but the good news is that AS is manageable.
Your healthcare provider will help you find treatments that reduce how much AS symptoms interfere with your day-to-day routine. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or talk to them about your treatments. You’re the best judge of how you feel.
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the most common type of arthritis in children. Symptoms include stiffness, pain and vision problems. Treatments include medications and physical and occupational therapy.
What is juvenile idiopathic arthritis?
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common type of arthritis that affects children. JIA is a chronic (long-lasting) disease that can affect joints in any part of the body.
JIA is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly targets the synovium, the tissue that lines the inside of the joint, and the synovial fluid in the joint. This causes the synovium to make extra synovial fluid, which leads to swelling, pain and stiffness in the joint.
This process can spread to the nearby tissues, eventually damaging cartilage and bone. Other areas of the body, especially the eyes, may also be affected by the inflammation. If it is not treated, JIA can interfere with a child’s normal growth and development.
What are the types of juvenile idiopathic arthritis?
There are several types of JIA, depending on the symptoms and the number of joints involved:
Oligoarthritis: This type of JIA affects fewer than five joints, most often in the knee, ankle and elbow. It also can cause uveitis, an inflammation of the middle layer of the eye (the uvea). Uveitis may be undetectable without a dedicated eye exam. About half of all children with JIA have oligoarthritis; it is more common in girls than in boys. Many children will outgrow oligoarthritis by adulthood. In some children, it may spread to eventually involve more joints.
Polyarthritis: This type of JIA affects five or more joints, often the same joints on each side of the body. Polyartritis can also affect the neck and jaw joints and the smaller joints, such as those in the hands and feet. It is more common in girls than in boys and accounts for 20 percent of JIA patients
Psoriatic arthritis: This type of arthritis affects children who have arthritis and psoriasis, a rash that causes raised red patches or skin lesions covered with a silvery white buildup of dead skin cells. Psoriatic arthritis can also cause nail changes that look like dimpling or pitting.
Enthesitis-related arthritis: Also known as spondyloarthropathy. This type of arthritis often affects the spine, hips and entheses (the points where tendons and ligaments attach to bones), and occurs mainly in boys older than seven years. The eyes are often affected in this type of arthritis, and may become painful or red.
Systemic arthritis: Also called Still’s disease, this type occurs in about 10 to 20 percent of children with JIA. A systemic illness is one that can affect the entire body or many body systems. Besides arthritis, systemic JIA usually causes persistent high fever and rash, which most often appears on the trunk, arms and legs when fever spikes. It can also affect internal organs, such as the heart, liver, spleen and lymph nodes. This type of JIA affects boys and girls equally and rarely affects the eyes.
How common is juvenile idiopathic arthritis?
JIA is the most common type of arthritis in children. It affects about 1 in 1,000 children, or about 300,000 children in the United States.
What causes juvenile idiopathic arthritis?
The causes of JIA are not known. Factors that may be involved, alone or in combination, include genetics (the disease may be inherited), infection and environmental factors that influence the immune system.
What are the symptoms of juvenile idiopathic arthritis?
Symptoms vary depending on the type of JIA and may include:
Pain, swelling and tenderness in the joints. The joints may also feel warm.
Morning joint stiffness
Limping gait (younger children may not be able to perform motor activities that they recently learned)
Because there are no tests for JIA, the doctor will try to rule out other causes of arthritis and other diseases as the cause of the symptoms.
To diagnose JIA, the doctor will take a complete medical history that includes a description of symptoms and perform a physical examination. The doctor will also examine the joints for signs of arthritis.
The doctor may also order these tests:
Imaging techniques such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to show the condition of the joints;
Laboratory tests on blood, urine, and/or joint fluid to help determine the type of arthritis. These include tests to determine the degree of inflammation and the presence of the substances antinuclear antibody (ANA) and rheumatoid factor. These tests also can help rule out other diseases — such as an infection, bone disorder, or cancer — or an injury as the cause of the symptoms.
How is juvenile idiopathic arthritis treated?
The goals of treatment are to relieve pain, reduce swelling, increase joint mobility and strength, and prevent joint damage and complications. Treatment generally includes medications and exercise.
Medications used to treat JIA include the following:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These medicines provide pain relief and reduce swelling, but do not affect the course or prognosis of JIA. Some are available over the counter and others require a prescription. NSAIDs include ibuprofen (such as Motrin® and Advil®) and naproxen (such as Aleve®). These medicines can cause nausea and stomach upset in some people and need to be taken with food.
Corticosteroids (steroids): Corticosteroids are often given as an injection (shot) into a single affected joint. These medications can also be taken orally (by mouth) as a pill, especially by patients with more widespread disease. Oral corticosteroids can have serious side effects, including weakened bones, especially when used for long periods. Doctors usually try to limit using long-term steroids in children because they can interfere with a child’s normal growth.
Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs): These medications work by changing, or modifying, the actual disease process in arthritis. The aim of DMARD therapy is to prevent bone and joint destruction by suppressing the immune system’s attack on the joints. Methotrexate is the DMARD most often used to treat JIA. Other medications used include sulfasalazine and leflunomide.
Biological modifying agents: Biological agents are medications that directly target molecules or proteins in the immune system that are responsible for causing the inflammation. They are given by subcutaneous injection or intravenously and are used to treat children with more severe arthritis that has not responded to other medications. Biological agents must be used with caution because they suppress the immune system and make children more vulnerable to infection. These drugs include etanercept, infliximab, adalimumab, abatacept, anakinra, rilonacept, and tocilizumab.
Exercise and physical and occupational therapy can help reduce pain, maintain muscle tone, improve mobility (ability to move) and prevent permanent handicaps. In some cases, splints or braces also may be used to help protect the joints as the child grows. Special accommodations with schools may be needed to adjust for children with limitations from their arthritis.
What complications are associated with juvenile idiopathic arthritis?
If it is not treated, JIA can lead to:
Permanent damage to joints
Interference with a child’s bones and growth
Chronic (long-term) arthritis and disability (loss of function)
Vision problems, including a loss of vision caused by uveitis (inflammation inside the eye)
Inflammation of the membranes surrounding the heart (pericarditis) or lungs (pleuritis) in systemic JIA
Can juvenile idiopathic arthritis be prevented?
At this time, because the cause of JIA is unknown, there is no method to prevent the development of JIA.
What is the prognosis (outlook) for children who have juvenile idiopathic arthritis?
JIA affects each child differently. For some, only one or two joints are affected and the disease is easy to control. For others, JIA may involve many joints and the symptoms may be more severe and may last longer.
With early detection and treatment, including physical and occupational therapy, it is possible to achieve good control of the arthritis, prevent joint damage, and allow normal or near-normal function for most children who have JIA.
A note from QBan Health Care Services
Children with JIA should live life as normal as possible. Attending school, playing sports, participating in extracurricular and family activities regularly is encouraged. Exercise does not make symptoms of arthritis worse. In fact, exercise can help prevent deconditioning, increase muscle strength and muscle endurance to support the joints.
There is no evidence that shows special diets are effective for arthritis, so children can eat a standard, well-balanced diet.
Psoriatic arthritis is a form of arthritis that’s linked to psoriasis — a chronic skin condition. The most common symptoms are joint pain and stiffness, skin rashes and changes in your fingernails and toenails. There’s no cure for psoriatic arthritis, but a healthcare provider will help you find treatments to manage your symptoms.
What is psoriatic arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis. It usually affects people who have psoriasis or a biological family history of psoriasis.
Arthritis is a common disorder that affects your joints. It causes pain and inflammation in and around your joints. Psoriasis causes inflammation in your skin. Psoriasis rashes are patches of discolored skin covered with scales. These thick, scaly areas are called plaques. It can also make your fingernails and toenails thicken and look flaky or pitted (covered in tiny indentations).
Both arthritis and psoriasis are autoimmune diseases. An autoimmune disease is the result of your immune system accidentally attacking your body instead of protecting it. Psoriatic arthritis happens when you develop psoriasis symptoms on your skin and inflammation in your joints.
Psoriatic arthritis symptoms on your skin and in your joints usually come and go in periods called flares. A healthcare provider will suggest treatments to relieve your symptoms during a flare.
Visit a healthcare provider if you notice new symptoms on your skin or pain, swelling or stiffness in your joints.
How common is it?
Less than 1% of all people experience psoriatic arthritis. But it’s much more common in people who have psoriasis. Around 30% of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis at some point in their life.
What are the five forms of psoriatic arthritis?
A healthcare provider might classify psoriatic arthritis based on which joints it affects or on which side of your body you experience symptoms. The five forms of psoriatic arthritis include:
Distal interphalangeal predominant psoriatic arthritis: This affects the joints near the end of your fingers and toes (phalanges). It’s the most common type of psoriatic arthritis that affects your fingernails and toenails. Your nails might look discolored, flaky or pitted.
Symmetric polyarthritis: Polyarthritis affects five or more joints at the same time. Symmetric polyarthritis affects the same joints on both sides of your body. For example, both of your knees and both elbows. It’s one of the most common types of psoriatic arthritis.
Asymmetric oligoarticular psoriatic arthritis: This affects two to four joints on both sides of your body — one knee and one elbow, for example. It’s the other most common form of psoriatic arthritis (along with symmetric polyarthritis).
Spondylitis: Your spine is made of 33 bones called vertebrae (the plural form of vertebra). Spondylitis causes inflammation and other symptoms in the joints between your vertebrae. It can also cause pain in your hips and shoulders.
Arthritis mutilans: This causes severe symptoms in your hands and feet. The inflammation is usually severe enough to cause bone loss (osteolysis). It’s the rarest form of psoriatic arthritis. Less than 5% of all people with psoriatic arthritis have arthritis mutilans.
What are psoriatic arthritis symptoms?
Psoriatic arthritis can affect any joint in your body. Your symptoms can be mild — only a small amount of pain and stiffness with few signs of psoriasis on your skin. More severe psoriatic arthritis flares can make it hard or impossible to move and use your joints and will cause larger patches of psoriasis on your skin.
The most common psoriatic arthritis symptoms include:
Joint pain.
Stiffness.
Discoloration or redness near your affected joints.
Pain or tenderness where tendons and ligaments attach to your bones (like near your Achilles tendon).
Swelling in your fingers and toes (dactylitis or “sausage fingers”).
Psoriasis rash — silver or gray scaly patches on your skin (especially your scalp, elbows, knees and lower back).
Nail psoriasis symptoms like discoloration or pitting on your fingernails or toenails.
Fatigue.
What causes psoriatic arthritis?
Experts aren’t sure what causes psoriatic arthritis. Some studies have found that people with psoriatic arthritis have similar genetic mutations. Experts can’t say for certain if these changes in your genes are what cause psoriatic arthritis or if they change after you develop it.
Around 40% of people with psoriatic arthritis have a family member that also has it. This means it might be a hereditary condition — passed from biological parents to their children.
Tell your healthcare provider if someone in your family has psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis.
What are the risk factors?
Psoriatic arthritis can affect anyone. It usually develops in people between 30 and 50.
People with psoriatic arthritis typically develop psoriasis in their teens or early 20s and don’t develop symptoms in their joints until later in life.
What are psoriatic arthritis complications?
People with psoriatic arthritis are more likely to develop other health conditions, including:
Psoriatic arthritis symptoms can make it painful or difficult to use your joints. This can make it hard to get enough exercise. Talk to a healthcare provider about low-impact exercises that put less pressure on your joints. Yoga, walking or aqua therapy are all good ways to work out without stressing your joints.
How is psoriatic arthritis diagnosed?
A healthcare provider will diagnose psoriatic arthritis with a physical exam and some tests. Your provider will ask you about your symptoms and look at your skin and joints.
You might need to visit a rheumatologist, a provider who specializes in treating musculoskeletal conditions, autoimmune disorders and inflammatory conditions. A dermatologist — a provider who specializes in taking care of your skin — can diagnose and suggest treatments for psoriasis.
There’s no test that can diagnose psoriatic arthritis, but your provider might use tests to rule out other causes of your symptoms. They might use blood tests to check for infections. Imaging tests can take pictures of your joints to show damage or inflammation. You might need one or a few imaging tests, including:
It’s very rare to need surgery if you have psoriatic arthritis. If your joints are damaged or you’ve experienced bone loss, you might need an arthroplasty (joint replacement). Your provider or surgeon will tell you which type of surgery you’ll need and what to expect.
How can I prevent psoriatic arthritis?
Because experts don’t know what causes psoriatic arthritis, you can’t prevent it. You can lower your chances of developing all types of arthritis by:
Avoiding tobacco products.
Following a diet and exercise plan that’s healthy for you.
Doing low-impact, non-weight-bearing exercise.
Always wearing proper protective equipment for any activity that could damage your joints.
What can I expect if I have psoriatic arthritis?
You should expect to manage your symptoms for a long time (maybe the rest of your life). Some people experience long periods of time between flares, but there’s no cure for psoriatic arthritis.
It can be frustrating when a flare happens suddenly. Eventually, you might learn to recognize the warning signs of a flare and start managing symptoms before they become more severe. Talk to a healthcare provider if you feel like your symptoms are getting worse or your current treatments aren’t managing them well enough.
When should I see my healthcare provider?
Visit a healthcare provider if you notice new rashes or other symptoms on your skin or if you’re experiencing joint pain. Talk to your provider if your psoriatic arthritis symptoms are changing, flaring up more often or getting more severe.
What questions should I ask my doctor?
Do I have psoriatic arthritis or another type of arthritis?
Which tests will I need?
Which treatments will manage my symptoms best?
Should I see a rheumatologist and a dermatologist?
Will I need physical or occupational therapy?
What are good exercises to prevent muscle weakness?
Is psoriatic arthritis worse than rheumatoid arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are different types of arthritis. They’re both autoimmune diseases.
Psoriatic arthritis is arthritis linked to psoriasis, a condition that affects your skin, fingernails and toenails. Rheumatoid arthritis is a type of arthritis that happens when your immune system attacks the tissue lining the joints on both sides of your body.
Neither condition is better or worse than the other. They’re both chronic (long-term) conditions you’ll need to manage for a long time. A healthcare provider will help you find treatments that manage your symptoms and reduce how much arthritis affects your life on a day-to-day basis.
How serious is psoriatic arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis symptoms can range from mild to severe. You might never experience severe symptoms. But there’s a chance your symptoms will vary between flares, often with seemingly no cause or reason. Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic (long-term) condition. In that sense, it’s serious — you’ll have to manage symptoms for a long time, maybe for the rest of your life. But between flares, you should be able to participate in all your usual activities.
A note from QBan Health Care Services
It can be extremely frustrating to manage psoriatic arthritis. You might feel like you’re dealing with two conditions at the same time — the skin and nail symptoms of psoriasis and joint issues caused by arthritis. Your healthcare provider will help you find treatments that manage your symptoms during flares. They’ll also suggest ways you can keep your body healthy and strong to support your joints and skin.
Talk to your provider if it feels like your symptoms are changing, getting worse or flaring up more often. Listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to ask for adjustments in your treatment.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a type of arthritis where your immune system attacks the tissue lining the joints on both sides of your body. It may affect other parts of your body too. The exact cause is unknown. Treatment options include lifestyle changes, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nutritional therapy, medication and surgery.
What is rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that is chronic (ongoing). It occurs in the joints on both sides of your body, which makes it different from other types of arthritis. You may have symptoms of pain and inflammation in your:
Fingers.
Hands.
Wrists
Knees
Ankles.
Feet.
Toes.
Uncontrolled inflammation damages cartilage, which normally acts as a “shock absorber” in your joints. In time, this can deform your joints. Eventually, your bone itself erodes. This can lead to the fusion of your joint (an effort of your body to protect itself from constant irritation).
Specific cells in your immune system (your body’s infection-fighting system) aid this process. These substances are produced in your joints but also circulate and cause symptoms throughout your body. In addition to affecting your joints, rheumatoid arthritis sometimes affects other parts of your body, including your:
Skin.
Eyes.
Mouth.
Lungs.
Heart.
Who gets rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis affects more than 1.3 million people in the United States. It’s 2.5 times more common in people designated female at birth than in people designated male at birth.
What’s the age of onset for rheumatoid arthritis?
RA usually starts to develop between the ages of 30 and 60. But anyone can develop rheumatoid arthritis. In children and young adults — usually between the ages of 16 and 40 — it’s called young-onset rheumatoid arthritis (YORA). In people who develop symptoms after they turn 60, it’s called later-onset rheumatoid arthritis (LORA).
What are the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis affects everyone differently. In some people, joint symptoms develop over several years. In other people, rheumatoid arthritis symptoms progress rapidly. Many people have time with symptoms (flares) and then time with no symptoms (remission).
Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include:
Pain, swelling, stiffness and tenderness in more than one joint.
Stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting for long periods.
Pain and stiffness in the same joints on both sides of your body.
Everyone’s experience of rheumatoid arthritis is a little different. But many people with RA say that fatigue is among the worst symptoms of the disease.
Living with chronic pain can be exhausting. And fatigue can make it more difficult to manage your pain. It’s important to pay attention to your body and take breaks before you get too tired.
What are rheumatoid arthritis flare symptoms?
The symptoms of a rheumatoid arthritis flare aren’t much different from the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. But people with RA have ups and downs. A flare is a time when you have significant symptoms after feeling better for a while. With treatment, you’ll likely have periods of time when you feel better. Then, stress, changes in weather, certain foods or infections trigger a period of increased disease activity.
Although you can’t prevent flares altogether, there are steps you can take to help you manage them. It might help to write your symptoms down every day in a journal, along with what’s going on in your life. Share this journal with your rheumatologist, who may help you identify triggers. Then you can work to manage those triggers.
What causes rheumatoid arthritis?
The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown. Researchers think it’s caused by a combination of genetics, hormones and environmental factors.
Normally, your immune system protects your body from disease. With rheumatoid arthritis, something triggers your immune system to attack your joints. An infection, smoking or physical or emotional stress may be triggering.
Is rheumatoid arthritis genetic?
Scientists have studied many genes as potential risk factors for RA. Certain genetic variations and non-genetic factors contribute to your risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. Non-genetic factors include sex and exposure to irritants and pollutants.
People born with variations in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis. HLA genes help your immune system tell the difference between proteins your body makes and proteins from invaders like viruses and bacteria.
What are the risk factors for developing rheumatoid arthritis?
There are several risk factors for developing rheumatoid arthritis. These include:
Family history: You’re more likely to develop RA if you have a close relative who also has it.
Sex: Women and people designated female at birth are two to three times more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis.
Smoking:Smoking increases a person’s risk of rheumatoid arthritis and makes the disease worse.
Obesity: Your chances of developing RA are higher if you have obesity.
How is rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider may refer you to a physician who specializes in arthritis (rheumatologist). Rheumatologists diagnose people with rheumatoid arthritis based on a combination of several factors. They’ll do a physical exam and ask you about your medical history and symptoms. Your rheumatologist will order blood tests and imaging tests.
The blood tests look for inflammation and blood proteins (antibodies) that are signs of rheumatoid arthritis. These may include:
About 80% of people with RA test positive for rheumatoid factor (RF).
About 60% to 70% of people living with rheumatoid arthritis have antibodies to cyclic citrullinated peptides (CCP) (proteins).
Your rheumatologist may order imaging tests to look for signs that your joints are wearing away. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause the ends of the bones within your joints to wear down. The imaging tests may include:
In some cases, your provider may watch how you do over time before making a definitive diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.
What are the diagnostic criteria for rheumatoid arthritis?
Diagnostic criteria are a set of signs, symptoms and test results your provider looks for before telling you that you’ve got rheumatoid arthritis. They’re based on years of research and clinical practice. Some people with RA don’t have all the criteria. Generally, though, the diagnostic criteria for rheumatoid arthritis include:
Inflammatory arthritis in two or more large joints (shoulders, elbows, hips, knees and ankles).
Inflammatory arthritis in smaller joints.
Positive biomarker tests like rheumatoid factor (RF) or CCP antibodies.
Elevated levels of CRP or an elevated sed rate.
Your symptoms have lasted more than six weeks.
What are the goals of treating rheumatoid arthritis?
The most important goal of treating rheumatoid arthritis is to reduce joint pain and swelling. Doing so should help maintain or improve joint function. The long-term goal of treatment is to slow or stop joint damage. Controlling joint inflammation reduces your pain and improves your quality of life.
How is rheumatoid arthritis treated?
Joint damage generally occurs within the first two years of diagnosis, so it’s important to see your provider if you notice symptoms. Treating rheumatoid arthritis in this “window of opportunity” can help prevent long-term consequences.
Treatments for rheumatoid arthritis include lifestyle changes, therapies, medicine and surgery. Your provider considers your age, health, medical history and how bad your symptoms are when deciding on a treatment.
What medications treat rheumatoid arthritis?
Early treatment with certain drugs can improve your long-term outcome. Combinations of drugs may be more effective than, and appear to be as safe as, single-drug therapy.
There are many medications to decrease joint pain, swelling and inflammation, and to prevent or slow down the disease. Medications that treat rheumatoid arthritis include:
COX-2 inhibitors are another kind of NSAID. They include products like celecoxib (Celebrex®). COX-2 inhibitors have fewer bleeding side effects on your stomach than typical NSAIDs.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids, also known as steroids, also can help with pain and inflammation. They include prednisone and cortisone.
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
Unlike other NSAIDs, DMARDs actually can slow the disease process by modifying your immune system. Your provider may prescribe DMARDs alone and in combination with steroids or other drugs. Common DMARDs include:
Methotrexate (Trexall®).
Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil®).
Sulfasalazine (Azulfidine®).
Leflunomide (Arava®).
Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors
JAK inhibitors are another type of DMARD. Rheumatologists often prescribe JAK inhibitors for people who don’t improve taking methotrexate alone. These products include:
If you don’t respond well to DMARDs, your provider may prescribe biologic response agents (biologics). Biologics target the molecules that cause inflammation in your joints. Providers think biologics are more effective because they attack the cells at a more specific level. These products include:
Biologics tend to work rapidly — within two to six weeks. Your provider may prescribe them alone or in combination with a DMARD like methotrexate.
What is the safest drug for rheumatoid arthritis?
The safest drug for rheumatoid arthritis is one that gives you the most benefit with the least amount of negative side effects. This varies depending on your health history and the severity of your RA symptoms. Your healthcare provider will work with you to develop a treatment program. The drugs your healthcare provider prescribes will match the seriousness of your condition.
It’s important to meet with your healthcare provider regularly. They’ll watch for any side effects and change your treatment, if necessary. Your healthcare provider may order tests to determine how effective your treatment is and if you have any side effects.
Will changing my diet help my rheumatoid arthritis?
When combined with the treatments and medications your provider recommends, changes in diet may help reduce inflammation and other symptoms of RA. But it won’t cure you. You can talk with your doctor about adding good fats and minimizing bad fats, salt and processed carbohydrates. No herbal or nutritional supplements, like collagen, can cure rheumatoid arthritis. These dietary changes are safer and most successful when monitored by your rheumatologist.
But there are lifestyle changes you can make that may help relieve your symptoms. Your rheumatologist may recommend weight loss to reduce stress on inflamed joints.
People with rheumatoid arthritis also have a higher risk of coronary artery disease. High blood cholesterol (a risk factor for coronary artery disease) can respond to changes in diet. A nutritionist can recommend specific foods to eat or avoid to reach a desirable cholesterol level.
When is surgery used to treat rheumatoid arthritis?
Surgery may be an option to restore function to severely damaged joints. Your provider may also recommend surgery if your pain isn’t controlled with medication. Surgeries that treat RA include:
What is the prognosis (outlook) for people who have rheumatoid arthritis?
Although there’s no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, there are many effective methods for decreasing your pain and inflammation and slowing down your disease process. Early diagnosis and effective treatment are very important.
What types of lifestyle changes can help with rheumatoid arthritis?
Having a lifelong illness like rheumatoid arthritis may make you feel like you don’t have much control over your quality of life. While there are aspects of RA that you can’t control, there are things you can do to help you feel the best that you can.
Such lifestyle changes include:
Rest
When your joints are inflamed, the risk of injury to your joints and nearby soft tissue structures (such as tendons and ligaments) is high. This is why you need to rest your inflamed joints. But it’s still important for you to exercise. Maintaining a good range of motion in your joints and good fitness overall are important in coping with RA.
Exercise
Pain and stiffness can slow you down. Some people with rheumatoid arthritis become inactive. But inactivity can lead to a loss of joint motion and loss of muscle strength. These, in turn, decrease joint stability and increase pain and fatigue.
Regular exercise can help prevent and reverse these effects. You might want to start by seeing a physical or occupational therapist for advice about how to exercise safely. Beneficial workouts include:
Range-of-motion exercises to preserve and restore joint motion.
Exercises to increase strength.
Exercises to increase endurance (walking, swimming and cycling).
What are the early signs of rheumatoid arthritis?
Early signs of rheumatoid arthritis include tenderness or pain in small joints like those in your fingers or toes. Or you might notice pain in a larger joint like your knee or shoulder. These early signs of RA are like an alarm clock set to vibrate. It might not always been enough to get your attention. But the early signs are important because the sooner you’re diagnosed with RA, the sooner your treatment can begin. And prompt treatment may mean you are less likely to have permanent, painful joint damage.
What is early stage rheumatoid arthritis?
Providers sometimes use the term “early rheumatoid arthritis” to describe the condition in people who’ve had symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis for fewer than six months.
What are the four stages of rheumatoid arthritis?
Stage 1: In early stage rheumatoid arthritis, the tissue around your joint(s) is inflamed. You may have some pain and stiffness. If your provider ordered X-rays, they wouldn’t see destructive changes in your bones.
Stage 2: The inflammation has begun to damage the cartilage in your joints. You might notice stiffness and a decreased range of motion.
Stage 3: The inflammation is so severe that it damages your bones. You’ll have more pain, stiffness and even less range of motion than in stage 2, and you may start to see physical changes.
Stage 4: In this stage, the inflammation stops but your joints keep getting worse. You’ll have severe pain, swelling, stiffness and loss of mobility.
What’s the normal sed rate for rheumatoid arthritis?
Sed rate (erythrocyte sedimentation rate, also known as ESR) is a blood test that helps detect inflammation in your body. Your healthcare provider may also use this test to watch how your RA progresses. Normal sed rates are as follows:
People designated male at birth
Age
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate
< 50 years old
≤ 15 mm/hr
“50 years old”
≤ 20 mm/hr
People designated female at birth
Age
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate
< 50 years old
≤ 20 mm/hr
“50 years old”
≤ 30 mm/hr
In rheumatoid arthritis, your sed rate is likely higher than normal. To take part in clinical trials related to rheumatoid arthritis, you usually need an ESR of ≥ 28 mm/hr. With treatment, your sed rate may decrease. If you reach the normal ranges listed above, you may be in remission.
What is the difference?
Rheumatoid arthritis vs. osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are both common causes of pain and stiffness in joints. But they have different causes. In osteoarthritis, inflammation and injury break down your cartilage over time. In rheumatoid arthritis, your immune system attacks the lining of your joints.
Rheumatoid arthritis vs. gout
Rheumatoid arthritis and gout are both painful types of arthritis. Gout symptoms include intense pain, redness, stiffness, swelling and warmth in your big toe or other joints. In gout, uric acid crystals cause inflammation. In rheumatoid arthritis, it’s your immune system that causes joint damage.
Is rheumatoid arthritis a disability?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) says that a disability is a physical or mental impairment that limits one or more major life activity. If RA impacts your ability to function, you may qualify for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration.
Can rheumatoid arthritis go away?
No, rheumatoid arthritis doesn’t go away. It’s a condition you’ll have for the rest of your life. But you may have periods where you don’t notice symptoms. These times of feeling better (remission) may come and go.
That said, the damage RA causes in your joints is here to stay. If you don’t see a provider for RA treatment, the disease can cause permanent damage to your cartilage and, eventually, your joints. RA can also harm organs like your lung and heart.
A note from QBan Health Care Services
If you have rheumatoid arthritis, you may feel like you’re on a lifelong roller coaster of pain and fatigue. It’s important to share these feelings and your symptoms with your healthcare provider. Along with X-rays and blood tests, what you say about your quality of life will help inform your treatment. Your healthcare provider will assess your symptoms and recommend the right treatment plan for your needs. Most people can manage rheumatoid arthritis and still do the activities they care about.
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. It happens when the cartilage that lines your joints is worn down or damaged and your bones rub together when you use that joint. A healthcare provider will help you find a combination of treatments to manage your symptoms.
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis (a condition that affects your joints). Healthcare providers sometimes refer to it as degenerative joint disease or OA. It happens when the cartilage that lines your joints is worn down over time and your bones rub against each other when you use your affected joints.
Usually, the ends of bones in your joints are capped in a layer of tough, smooth cartilage. Cartilage is like a two-in-one shock absorber and lubricant — it helps the bones in your joints move past each other smoothly and safely. If you have osteoarthritis, the cartilage in your affected joints wears away over time. Eventually, your bones rub against each other when you move your joints.
Osteoarthritis can affect any of your joints, but most commonly develops in your:
A healthcare provider might classify osteoarthritis as one of two types:
Primary osteoarthritis is the most common form of osteoarthritis that develops in your joints over time. Experts think it’s usually caused by normal wear and tear of using your joints throughout your life.
Secondary osteoarthritis happens when something directly damages one of your joints enough to cause osteoarthritis. Injuries and traumas are common causes of secondary osteoarthritis. Other types of arthritis can damage the cartilage in your joints enough to cause osteoarthritis, too.
How common is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is very common. Experts estimate that more than 80% of adults older than 55 have osteoarthritis, even if some of them never experience symptoms.
Around 60% of people with osteoarthritis have symptoms they can notice or feel.
What are osteoarthritis symptoms?
The most common symptoms of osteoarthritis include:
Pain in a joint (especially when you’re moving it).
Stiffness.
Swelling near a joint.
A decreased range of motion (how far you can move a joint).
Feeling like a joint isn’t as strong or stable as it usually is.
A joint looking noticeably different than it used to (joint deformity).
What causes osteoarthritis?
Experts aren’t sure what causes osteoarthritis. Primary osteoarthritis usually develops slowly as you age. As you get older, normal wear and tear on your joints might contribute to their cartilage breaking down.
Anything that directly damages your joints can also cause osteoarthritis, including:
A healthcare provider will diagnose osteoarthritis with a physical exam and imaging tests. They’ll look at your joints and ask you when you first noticed any symptoms. Tell them if any activities make your symptoms worse, or if they come and go.
What tests are done to diagnose osteoarthritis?
Your healthcare provider might use X-rays to take pictures of your joints. They might also use an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or CT (computed tomography) scan.
You might need blood tests to rule out other conditions or issues that cause similar symptoms.
How is osteoarthritis treated?
Your healthcare provider will help you find treatments that relieve your osteoarthritis symptoms. There’s no cure for arthritis, and you can’t regrow the cartilage in your affected joints. Your provider will help you find ways to manage your symptoms when you’re experiencing them.
The most common treatments for osteoarthritis include:
Medication: Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers can help reduce pain and inflammation. You might need medication you take by mouth or topical pain relievers (creams, ointments or patches you put on your skin near your affected joints).
Exercise: Moving your joints can relieve stiffness and strengthen the muscles around them. Low-impact activities like swimming, water aerobics and weight training can all help. Your provider might recommend that you work with a physical therapist.
Supportive devices: Wearing shoe inserts or a brace can support and stabilize your joints. Using a cane or walker can take pressure off your affected joints and help you move safely.
Heat and cold therapies: Applying heat or cold to your affected joints might help relieve pain and stiffness. Your provider will tell you how often (and for how long) you should apply a heating pad, ice packs or a cool compress.
Complementary therapy: Complementary therapies may work alongside other treatment options. Examples of complementary medicine include acupuncture, massage, meditation, tai chi and dietary supplements. Talk to your provider before you start taking any herbal or dietary supplements.
Surgery: Most people don’t need surgery to treat osteoarthritis. Your provider might recommend surgery if you’re experiencing severe symptoms and other treatments haven’t worked. You might need a joint replacement (arthroplasty). Your provider or surgeon will tell you what to expect.
How can I prevent osteoarthritis?
The best way to prevent osteoarthritis is to maintain good overall health, including:
Avoiding tobacco products.
Doing low-impact exercise.
Following a diet plan that’s healthy for you.
Always wearing your seatbelt.
Wearing proper protective equipment for any activity, sport or work you’re doing.
Visiting a healthcare provider for regular checkups and as soon as you notice any changes in your joints.
What can I expect if I have osteoarthritis?
Most people with osteoarthritis need to manage their symptoms for the rest of their lives. Your healthcare provider will help you find the right combination of treatments to reduce your symptoms.
If you have osteoarthritis, it’s important to stay as active as possible. If joint pain and other symptoms make it too hard for you to move, you may face a greater risk for other serious health conditions like heart disease, diabetes and some types of cancer.
Talk to your healthcare provider if osteoarthritis makes it hard (or impossible) to stay active. They’ll help you find new treatments to manage your symptoms.
What can I do to make living with osteoarthritis easier?
You might need to tweak your routine to make living with osteoarthritis easier. Depending on when you’re experiencing symptoms (and how severe they are), you may need to avoid or modify your activities while you’re managing symptoms. You might work with an occupational therapist if you need help performing your daily tasks. Occupational therapists are healthcare providers who can help you manage physical challenges like arthritis. They may recommend:
Adaptive equipment, such as grips for opening jars.
Techniques for doing hobbies, sports or other activities safely.
Tips for reducing joint pain during arthritic flare-ups.
When should I see my healthcare provider?
Visit a healthcare provider as soon as you notice any symptoms of osteoarthritis. Even minor joint pain can be a sign that you need treatment — especially if it doesn’t get better in a few days.
You can’t repair any cartilage degeneration (breakdown) that’s already happened, but starting osteoarthritis treatment can slow down further damage inside your joints.
Talk to your provider if it feels like your symptoms are coming back more often or are more severe than they used to be. Ask your provider about other treatment options or changes you can make to your existing treatments if you feel like they’re not working as well as they usually do.
What questions should I ask my doctor?
Do I have osteoarthritis or another type of arthritis?
Which of my joints are affected?
Which treatments will I need?
Will I need surgery?
Would working with a physical therapist or occupational therapist help me?
At what age does osteoarthritis usually start?
Osteoarthritis usually affects people older than 55. However, there’s no set timeline or age restriction on when you might experience it. It also doesn’t start the way some health conditions do — there’s not usually an exact starting point your healthcare provider can precisely identify.
It can take a long time for the cartilage in your affected joints to wear down enough to cause pain and stiffness. So, even if you first notice symptoms around age 55, that doesn’t mean osteoarthritis started exactly at that time.
A note from QBan Health Care Services
Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that happens when cartilage in your joints wears down. Without that slippery, smooth shock absorber, your joints can feel stiff, painful or like they’re grinding together when you use them.
The best thing to do for osteoarthritis is to visit a healthcare provider as soon as you notice symptoms, especially if they’re making it hard to participate in your usual activities. You’ll probably have to manage your symptoms for a long time, but your provider will help you find a combination of treatments that keeps you active and your joints safe and supported.
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that makes your immune system damage organs and tissue throughout your body. It causes inflammation that can affect your skin, joints, blood and organs like your kidneys, lungs and heart. A healthcare provider will help you find medications to manage your symptoms and reduce how often you experience flare-ups.
What is lupus?
Lupus is a condition that causes inflammation throughout your body. It’s an autoimmune disease, which means your immune system damages your body instead of protecting it. You may experience symptoms throughout your body depending on where your autoimmune system damages tissue, including in your:
Visit a healthcare provider if you notice new pain, rashes or changes to your skin, hair or eyes.
Types of lupus
Healthcare providers sometimes call lupus systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It’s the most common type of lupus, and means you have lupus throughout your body. Other types include:
Cutaneous lupus erythematous: Lupus that only affects your skin.
Drug-induced lupus: Some medications trigger lupus symptoms as a side effect. It’s usually temporary and might go away after you stop taking the medication that caused it.
Neonatal lupus: Babies are sometimes born with lupus. Babies born to biological parents with lupus aren’t certain to have lupus, but they might have an increased risk.
What are lupus symptoms?
Lupus causes symptoms throughout your body, depending on which organs or systems it affects. Everyone experiences a different combination and severity of symptoms.
Lupus symptoms usually come and go in waves called flare-ups. During a flare-up, the symptoms can be severe enough to affect your daily routine. You might also have periods of remission when you have mild or no symptoms.
Symptoms usually develop slowly. You might notice one or two signs of lupus at first, and then more or different symptoms later on. The most common symptoms include:
Native Americans, Alaska Natives and First Nations people.
Pacific Islanders.
People with a biological parent who has lupus.
How is lupus diagnosed?
A healthcare provider will diagnose lupus with a physical exam and some tests. They’ll examine your symptoms and talk to you about what you’re experiencing. Tell your provider when you first noticed symptoms or changes in your body. Your provider will ask about your medical history, including conditions you may have now and how you’re treating or managing them.
Lupus can be tricky to diagnose because it can affect so many parts of your body and cause lots of different symptoms. Even small changes or issues that seem unusual for you can be a key. Don’t be afraid to tell your provider about anything you’ve felt or sensed — you know your body better than anyone.
Which tests do providers use to diagnose lupus?
There’s not one test that can confirm a lupus diagnosis. Diagnosing it is usually part of a differential diagnosis. This means your provider will probably use a few tests to determine what’s causing your symptoms before ruling out other conditions and diagnosing you with lupus. They might use:
Blood tests to see how well your immune system is working and to check for infections or other issues like anemia or low blood cell counts.
Urinalysis to check your pee for signs of infections or other health conditions.
An antinuclear antibody (ANA) test looks for antibodies (protein markers that show a history of your body fighting off infections). People who have lupus usually have certain antibodies that show their immune system has been overly active.
A biopsy of your skin or kidney tissue can show if your immune system has damaged them.
What is lupus treatment?
Your healthcare provider will suggest treatments for lupus that manage your symptoms. The goal is minimizing damage to your organs and how much lupus affects your day-to-day life. Most people with lupus need a combination of medications to help them prevent flare-ups and lessen their symptom severity during one. You might need:
Hydroxychloroquine: Hydroxychloroquine is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) that can relieve lupus symptoms and slow down how they progress (change or get worse).
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter (OTC) NSAIDs relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Your provider will tell you which type of NSAID will work best for you, and how often you should take it. Don’t take NSAIDs for more than 10 days in a row without talking to your provider.
Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids are prescription medications that reduce inflammation. Prednisone is a common corticosteroid providers use to manage lupus. Your provider might prescribe you pills you take by mouth or inject a corticosteroid directly into one of your joints.
Immunosuppressants: Immunosuppressants are medications that hold back your immune system and stop it from being as active. They can help prevent tissue damage and inflammation.
You might need other medications or treatments to manage specific lupus symptoms you have or other health conditions it’s causing. For example, you may need treatment for anemia, high blood pressure (hypertension) or osteoporosis if lupus causes those issues.
Can I prevent lupus?
You can’t prevent lupus because experts aren’t sure what causes it. Talk to a healthcare provider about your risk if one of your biological parents has lupus.
How can I prevent lupus flare-ups?
You might be able to prevent and reduce lupus flare-ups by avoiding activities that trigger your symptoms, including:
Avoiding sun exposure: Spending too much time in the sun can trigger lupus symptoms in some people. Try to avoid going outside when the sun is brightest (usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.). Wear long sleeves, a hat or sun-protective clothing. Use a sunscreen that’s at least SPF 50.
Staying active: Joint pain can make it hard or painful to move. But moving and gently using your joints can be the best way to relieve symptoms like pain and stiffness. Walking, biking, swimming, yoga and tai chi are all great ways to move your body without putting too much stress on your joints. Ask your healthcare provider which types of activities are safest for you.
Getting enough sleep and protecting your mental health: Living with lupus can be frustrating. Getting the right amount of sleep (seven to nine hours for adults) and reducing your stress can help prevent flare-ups for some people. A psychologist or other mental health professional can help you develop healthy coping mechanisms.
What can I expect if I have lupus?
Lupus is a lifelong (chronic) condition. You should expect to manage lupus symptoms for the rest of your life.
Lupus can be unpredictable, and the way it impacts you can change over time. You’ll need to regularly visit your healthcare provider so they can track changes in your symptoms.
You’ll probably work with a team of providers as you learn to live with lupus. Your primary care provider will suggest specialists who can help with specific issues or symptoms. You’ll probably need to visit a rheumatologist — a healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing and treating autoimmune diseases. Which specialists you need to visit depends on which symptoms you have and how they affect your body.
Is there a cure for lupus?
There’s currently no cure for lupus. Your healthcare provider will help you find a combination of treatments to manage your symptoms and hopefully put lupus into remission (long periods of time with no symptoms or flare-ups).
When should I see my healthcare provider?
Visit a healthcare provider as soon as you notice any new or changing symptoms. Even small shifts in what you’re feeling and experiencing can be important.
Talk to your provider if it feels like your treatments aren’t managing lupus symptoms as well as they used to. Tell your provider if you’re having flare-ups more often — or if the flare-ups cause more severe symptoms. They’ll help you adjust your treatments as needed.
Go to the emergency room or call 911 (or your local emergency services number) if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms:
You can’t breathe.
You’re in severe pain.
You think you’re experiencing heart attack symptoms.
What questions should I ask my healthcare provider?
Do I have lupus or another autoimmune disease?
Which medications will I need?
How often should I see you for follow-up appointments?
Will I need to visit other specialists?
Can you suggest any support groups or other mental health resources?
A note from QBan Health Care Services
Lupus can be a frustrating, tiring condition. Pain, inflammation and irritation throughout your body can be exhausting. But don’t forget to appreciate yourself. Living with a chronic condition is hard work, and you deserve credit for managing your symptoms every day. Ask your provider about mental health resources and support groups if you think talking to someone about how you’re feeling could help you.
Don’t be afraid to talk to your provider and ask questions. Even small changes in your symptoms or health can be a sign that lupus is affecting you differently. Remember, you’re the best judge of when something isn’t quite right in your body.
Bursitis is a painful swelling, usually around your joints. It’s common in the shoulders, elbows, knees and feet. You’re more likely to get it if you have a job or hobby that puts a lot of stress on your joints.
What is bursitis?
Bursitis is painful swelling in a small, fluid-filled sac called a bursa. Bursae (the plural of bursa) cushion spaces around bones and other tissue. They’re like bubble wrap that protects structures throughout your body. Bursae cushion the spaces between bones and your:
Bursitis happens when a bursa becomes irritated and swells. The most common causes of bursitis are overuse and putting too much pressure on a bursa. The pain from an inflamed bursa may develop suddenly or build up over time.
Types of bursitis
There are more than 150 bursae in your body. Bursitis can affect any of them. You’re most likely to develop bursitis in joints you use for repetitive motions or in places you put a lot of pressure, including your:
Repetitive motions — like a pitcher throwing a baseball or lifting heavy boxes at work — commonly cause bursitis. Spending time in positions that put pressure on a specific part of your body (such as kneeling) can cause it, too.
It’s less common, but injuries and infections can cause bursitis, as well.
Activities that can lead to bursitis include:
Carpentry.
Gardening and raking.
Painting.
Poor posture or a poorly positioned joint or bone (due to different leg lengths, bone spurs, or arthritis in a joint).
Scrubbing.
Shoveling.
Playing sports like tennis, golf and baseball.
Playing an instrument.
Bursitis risk factors
Anyone can experience bursitis. People who are more likely to develop it include:
Athletes.
People who do physical work or manual labor.
Musicians.
People with certain health conditions have a higher risk of bursitis, including:
A healthcare provider will diagnose bursitis with a physical exam. They’ll ask you about your symptoms and examine the area around your affected body part. Tell your provider what you were doing before you noticed symptoms for the first time and if your job or a hobby requires you to do a repetitive motion.
What tests are done to diagnose bursitis?
Your provider might use some tests to diagnose bursitis, including:
X-rays to rule out other conditions.
Ultrasound or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) to detect swollen bursae.
A blood test to look for infection.
An aspiration (taking a sample of fluid) of your affected bursa if they think it’s infected.
What is the best way to treat bursitis?
Usually, rest is all you’ll need to treat bursitis. Avoid the activity or positions that irritated your bursa.
Taking a break from activities that put pressure on that part of your body will give it time to heal and prevent further injury. Ask your provider how long you’ll need to rest and avoid physical activities.
Your provider might suggest at-home treatments to reduce the pain and swelling while your bursa heals:
Elevate the injured area.
Take over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like ibuprofen, naproxen or acetaminophen. Don’t take pain relievers for more than 10 days in a row without talking to your provider.
Ice the area. Apply a cold compress or ice packs wrapped in a thin towel to the area for 15 minutes at a time, a few times a day.
Apply heat (like a heating pad or a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel). Your provider might suggest alternating ice and heat.
Wear a splint, sling or brace to keep the injured area supported.
Most cases of bursitis heal on their own with rest and at-home treatments. But your provider may recommend additional treatment options, including:
Corticosteroid injections to decrease inflammation and pain.
Surgery to resect (remove) your bursa if other treatments aren’t effective and you’re still experiencing symptoms for six months or longer.
How can I prevent bursitis?
The best way to prevent bursitis is to avoid overusing your body. To prevent bursitis:
Learn the proper posture or technique for sports or work activities.
Ease into new exercises or activities to avoid injury.
Avoid sitting or kneeling too long. These positions put a lot of pressure on your joints.
Use cushions and pads when you kneel or lean on your elbows.
Take breaks if you’re doing a repetitive task.
How long does bursitis usually last?
Bursitis is usually short-lived. Most people heal within a few weeks. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations and don’t resume physical activities before your bursa has healed. Even if your pain improves, putting pressure or stress on your bursa before it’s completely healed increases your risk of reinjuring it.
Will I need to miss work or school while I’m recovering from bursitis?
If a repetitive motion that’s part of your job or studies causes bursitis, you might need to miss work or school while you’re recovering. Tell your provider about your usual routine and they’ll explain which parts of it you need to modify or take a break from while you’re resting your injured bursa.
What happens if bursitis is left untreated?
The longer you put pressure or additional stress on an injured bursa, the longer it’ll take to recover. It also increases your risk of chronic bursitis (bursitis that comes and goes in the same area).
Chronic bursitis
You can get bursitis more than once in the same area. When you have repeated bursitis episodes, it’s considered a chronic (long-lasting) condition. Bursitis may come and go. The same kind of irritation that caused the original inflammation can trigger a new episode. Repeated flare-ups may damage the bursa and reduce your mobility in that joint.
When should I see my healthcare provider?
Visit a healthcare provider if you have any of the following symptoms:
Pain that interferes with your day-to-day activities.
Soreness that doesn’t get better in a few days with at-home treatment.
Bursitis that comes back (recurs).
Fever.
Discoloration or redness, swelling or a feeling of warmth in an injured area.
What questions should I ask my doctor?
Which type of bursitis do I have?
Will I need any tests?
Which treatments will I need?
How long do I need to rest?
When can I resume sports or other physical activities?
What is the difference between bursitis and arthritis?
Arthritis and bursitis both affect your joints. Bursitis is usually a short-term issue that’s caused by overusing or putting excess stress on a bursa around one of your joints. It doesn’t create long-lasting damage unless you continue to stress the area.
Arthritis happens when cartilage in a joint breaks down over time. Arthritis is usually a long-term condition that you’ll need to manage for the rest of your life.
What is the difference between bursitis and tendinitis?
Bursitis and tendinitis are both painful conditions that happen when tissue in your body is irritated and swells. Bursitis is inflammation in one or more of your bursae.
Tendinitis is inflammation or irritation of a tendon. Tendons are pieces of connective tissue between muscles and bones. Tendinitis can be either acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term).
Doing a repetitive activity can cause both bursitis and tendinitis — like doing the same motion for a sport, or using the same part of your body for physical work frequently.
A note from QBan Health Care Services
Bursitis is painful, and it can be frustrating to learn your job or hobby you love caused an injury inside your body. The good news is that bursitis is usually preventable. The first step is figuring out which movements caused the irritation.
Your healthcare provider will help you find treatments that let your injured bursae heal and solutions to prevent bursitis in the future. Don’t rush your recovery — rest for as long as your provider suggests. It might be annoying to skip sports or an activity that you’re used to doing every day, but it’s important to give your body all the time it needs to heal.
Tendonitis (tendinitis) is a condition where the connective tissues between your muscles and bones (tendons) inflame. Often caused by repetitive activities, tendonitis can be painful. It can happen in your elbow, knee, shoulder, hip, Achilles tendon and base of your thumb. Rest and avoiding strenuous activities help tendons heal.
What is tendonitis?
Tendonitis (tendinitis) is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon that makes it swell. Tendons are strands of connective tissue between muscles and bones that help you move. This condition usually happens after a repetitive strain or overuse injury. It’s common in your shoulders, elbows and knees. If you have tendonitis, you’ll feel pain and soreness around your affected joint, usually near where the tendon attaches to the bone. Tendonitis can be either acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term).
Types of tendonitis
Types of tendonitis get their names after sports and the area of your body where injuries happen. Some of the most common types of tendonitis include:
Tendonitis is a relatively common condition. This is because people participate in occupations, activities or hobbies where they can easily overuse or injure their tendons.
What are the symptoms of tendonitis?
The most common symptoms of tendonitis include:
Pain at the site of your tendon and the surrounding area. This pain can get worse when you move.
Stiff joints or difficulty moving your joints.
Hearing and feeling a cracking or popping sensation when you move.
Swelling, often with skin discoloration (red to purple or darker than your natural skin tone).
The pain you feel with tendonitis may be gradual or sudden and severe, especially if you have calcium deposits. Calcium deposits are a buildup of calcium in your tissues that looks like firm white to yellow bumps on your skin. These bumps can cause itchy skin.
Where on my body will I have symptoms of tendonitis?
Tendinitis can occur in almost any area of your body where a tendon connects a bone to a muscle. The most common places are:
Base of your thumb.
Elbow, usually along the outer part of the forearm, when your palm is facing up, near where the tendon attaches to the outside part of the elbow.
Anyone can get tendonitis. But it’s more common in those who do repetitive activities. Some of these activities include:
Gardening/landscaping.
Woodworking.
Shoveling.
Painting.
Scrubbing.
Playing sports like tennis, golf or baseball.
Other risk factors for tendonitis include:
Poor posture.
Presence of certain conditions that can weaken your muscles.
Your age. After age 40, your tendons tolerate less stress, are less elastic and tear more easily
What are the complications of tendonitis?
If left untreated, tendonitis could lead to:
Chronic tendonitis (a constant, dull pain when you move).
Difficulty or inability to move the affected part of your body.
Torn tendons (tendon rupture).
Muscle weakness.
How is tendonitis diagnosed?
A healthcare provider will diagnose tendonitis after a physical exam and testing. During the exam, your provider will take a complete medical history and ask you questions about your symptoms. They’ll order tests to confirm a diagnosis. Imaging tests help your provider see your tendons and could include:
If tendonitis doesn’t improve in about three weeks, a healthcare provider will offer additional treatment that could include:
Corticosteroid injections: Corticosteroids (often called “steroids”) work quickly to decrease the inflammation and pain in your tendon.
Physical therapy: Physical therapy includes range of motion exercises and splinting (thumb, forearm or hands). Physical therapy will focus on reducing inflammation, improving soft tissue mobility to the muscle (where that tendon originates from), and restoring movement, function and strength over time. With tendinitis-type injuries, a gradual loading of the tendon (eccentric loading), is essential to improving the condition and restoring function. Therapy may also be useful in screening other joints for mobility deficits that may have led to the development of tendonitis. A common example is looking at shoulder mobility when working with a person who has a tennis elbow.
Surgery: This is rarely needed and is only for severe symptoms that don’t respond to other treatments.
Are there side effects of the treatment?
Before you begin treatment, talk to your healthcare provider about possible side effects. You may experience:
Pain at your injection site if you receive corticosteroid injections.
Soreness after physical therapy.
Bleeding or an infection after surgery.
How long does tendonitis take to heal?
It could take between two to three weeks for your tendon to heal after tendonitis treatment. It can take a few months if you have a severe case of tendonitis. The best way to speed up your healing time is to rest. Don’t participate in strenuous exercises or activities that can put stress on your healing tendon. Your healthcare provider will let you know when it’s safe to return to your favorite sports and activities after your tendon heals.
Can I prevent tendonitis?
To avoid getting tendonitis, follow these tips:
Avoid staying in the same position. Take breaks every 30 minutes.
Learn proper posture and body positions for all activities.
Position your body directly in front of the object you want to pick up. Reach for the object by stretching your arm and hand directly forward toward the object. Never grab objects with your arm in a sideways position. If reaching for an object overhead, center your body and reach up and grab the item with both hands.
Use a firm, but not a tightly squeezed, grip when working with or picking up objects.
Don’t use one hand to carry heavy objects. Don’t hold the heavy object in one hand at the side of your body.
Avoid sitting with your leg folded under your bottom.
Stop any activity if you feel pain.
How can I lower my risk of tendonitis?
You can reduce your risk of developing tendonitis by following these steps before exercising or starting a sports activity:
Stretch and warm up before starting the activity.
Wear properly sized and fitted clothes, shoes and equipment.
Start slow. Gradually increase your activity level.
Stop your activity if you feel pain.
What can I expect if I have tendonitis?
Most people diagnosed with tendonitis have an excellent prognosis after treatment and rest. It may take a few weeks to a couple of months to recover from tendonitis, depending on the severity of your injury. Wait until your healthcare provider gives you the “all clear” to resume your regular physical activities.
If you develop tendonitis and receive treatment for it, you can get the injury again in the future if you put too much stress on your tendons. This is a repetitive strain injury. Your healthcare provider, sports medicine physician or physical therapist can give you advice to reduce your risk of developing repeat tendonitis in the future.
When should I see a healthcare provider?
You should see a healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:
Fever (over 100 degrees Fahrenheit or 38 degrees Celsius.).
Swelling, redness and warmth.
General illness.
Multiple sites of pain.
Inability to move the affected area.
These could be signs of another condition that needs more immediate attention.
What questions should I ask my doctor?
You may want to ask your healthcare provider:
Do I have tendonitis or arthritis?
When can I return to playing sports or exercising?
Are there side effects of the treatment?
Do I need surgery?
A note from QBan Health Care Services
Tendonitis can be a frustrating condition. You’ll need to stop and rest for a few weeks to let your tendon heal after an injury that causes it to swell. This can be challenging if you’re an active person or you play sports. Don’t return to the track or field until your healthcare provider tells you it’s safe to do so. Follow your provider’s instructions to prevent injuries that lead to tendonitis.
Sprains are common injuries. They happen when ligaments around one of your joints are stretched or torn. Sport injuries and falls are the most common causes. You can usually manage your symptoms at home with the RICE method, but you should visit a healthcare provider to get any injury diagnosed.
What is a sprain?
A sprain is an injury that happens when one of your ligaments is stretched or torn.
Ligaments are bands of tissue that connect bones throughout your body. They’re like ropes that hold your muscles and bones together and prevent them from moving too far. Ligaments also make sure your joints only move in the direction(s) they’re supposed to.
Sprains happen when ligaments around one of your joints are damaged. Visit a healthcare provider if you notice pain, swelling or it’s hard to use or put weight on a joint — especially if you’ve experienced a fall, injury or accident.
Types of sprains
Any joint supported by ligaments can be sprained. The most commonly sprained joints are:
Rolling an ankle or twisting a knee while walking, running or jumping.
Repetitive strain injuries (overusing a joint or performing a repetitive motion for work, a sport or a hobby).
What are the risk factors for sprains?
Anyone can experience a sprain, but some people are more likely to sprain a joint, including:
Athletes.
Workers with physically demanding jobs.
People who have a hobby or activity that makes them perform repetitive motions.
Exercise habits that can increase your injury risk (especially sprains) include:
Suddenly increasing your workout or activity intensity.
Starting a new sport or activity without the proper equipment or training (working out with poor form or wearing the wrong kind of shoes, for example).
Playing the same sport year-round with no offseason.
How are sprains diagnosed?
A healthcare provider will diagnose a sprain with a physical exam. Your provider will examine your injured joint. Tell them when you first noticed symptoms, especially if you know exactly what caused the injury.
Healthcare providers grade sprains based on their severity:
Grade 1 sprain (mild): Very little or no tearing in your ligament.
Grade 2 sprain (moderate): Your ligament is partially torn, but not all the way through.
Grade 3 sprain (severe): Your ligament is completely torn.
What tests do providers use to diagnose sprains?
You might need imaging tests to take pictures of your joint and the tissue around it. These tests can show damage inside your joint and help diagnose other injuries like bone fractures. Your provider might use:
After you see a provider for a diagnosis, you should be able to treat sprain symptoms at home by following the R.I.C.E. method:
Rest: Avoid the activity that caused your injury. Try not to use the injured part of your body while it heals.
Ice: Apply a cold compress to your injury 15 minutes at a time, a few times a day. Wrap ice packs in a towel or thin cloth so they’re not directly touching your skin.
Compression: Wrap an elastic bandage around your injured joint to help reduce swelling. Your provider can show you how to apply a compression wrap safely.
Elevation: Keep your joint above the level of your heart as often as you can.
Over-the-counter NSAIDs (aspirin or ibuprofen) or acetaminophen can reduce pain and inflammation. Talk to your provider before taking over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication for longer than 10 days.
Other treatments you may need include:
A brace or splint that supports your joint and holds it in place.
It’s rare to need surgery after a sprain. You may need surgery for a severe sprain or other injuries like a broken bone or dislocation. Some people need surgery if they’ve sprained the same joint multiple times.
How soon after treatment will I feel better?
You should start feeling better gradually after you start treating your symptoms. The most important part of healing after a sprain is to avoid using that joint or putting more stress on it. Ask your provider how much you can use your joint while you’re recovering.
How can I prevent sprains?
There might not be any way to prevent a sprain, especially if you’re an athlete.
During sports or other physical activities:
Wear the proper protective equipment.
Don’t “play through the pain” if something hurts during or after physical activity.
Give your body time to rest and recover after intense activity.
Stretch and warm up before playing sports or working out.
Cool down and stretch after physical activity.
Follow these general safety tips to reduce your risk of an injury:
Make sure your home and workspace are free from clutter that could trip you or others.
Always use the proper tools or equipment at home to reach things. Never stand on chairs, tables or countertops.
Use your cane or walker if you have difficulty walking or have an increased risk of falls.
What can I expect if I have a sprain?
You should expect to make a full recovery. Sprains are usually temporary injuries, and shouldn’t have a long-term impact on your health or ability to stay active.
Spraining a joint can make you more likely to injure it again in the future. Ask your provider about your unique risk and what you can do to prevent future sprains.
How long does it take to recover from a sprain?
Your sprain recovery time will depend on which joint is sprained and how severe it was. Most sprains take a few weeks to heal. More severe (grade 3) sprains can take a few months. Your healthcare provider will tell you what to expect.
When should I see my healthcare provider?
Visit a healthcare provider if you’ve experienced an injury and have sprain symptoms. Talk to your provider if you’ve started treating a sprain and your symptoms aren’t improving after a few days (or if they’re getting worse).
When should I go to the emergency room?
Go to the ER if you experience any of the following:
Extreme pain.
Swelling that’s getting worse.
Discoloration.
Numbness.
What questions should I ask my provider?
Do I have a sprain or another type of injury?
Which grade of sprain do I have?
Which treatments will I need?
When can I resume physical activity or play sports again?
What are sprains vs. strains?
Sprains and strains are similar injuries — the difference is what’s damaged.
Sprains happen when a ligament is torn or damaged, usually when one of your joints moves further than it should.
Muscle strains happen when one of your muscles is torn. People also sometimes call strains pulled muscles or muscle tears. Providers sometimes call tendon tears strains.
Sprains and strains are both common sports injuries. Visit a healthcare provider if you’re experiencing pain, swelling and can’t move a joint or muscle as well as you usually can.
A note from QBan Health Care Services
Almost everyone’s twisted an ankle, jammed a finger or had some kind of sprain in their lives. They’re one of the most common injuries. Even if most sprains aren’t serious and will heal with rest and at-home treatments, don’t ignore pain, swelling or instability in a joint. See a healthcare provider to get any injury diagnosed correctly, especially if it’s making it hard to use or move a joint.
Joint pain can be felt in the joints throughout your body. It may be a symptom of many different health conditions. Arthritis is the most common cause of joint pain. There are more than 100 kinds of arthritis. Joint pain may range from mild to severe. Treatments vary from simple at-home care to surgery, depending on your condition.
What is joint pain?
Joint pain is discomfort that affects one or more joints in your body. A joint is where the ends of two or more of your bones come together. For example, your hip joint is where your thigh bone meets your pelvis.
Joint discomfort is common and usually felt in your hands, feet, hips, knees or spine. Pain in your joints may be constant, or it can come and go. Sometimes, your joints can feel stiff, achy or sore. Some people complain of a burning, throbbing or “grating” sensation. In addition, your joints may feel stiff in the morning but loosen up and feel better with movement and activity. However, too much activity could make your pain worse.
Joint pain may affect the function of your joints and can limit your ability to do basic tasks. Severe, painful joints can interfere with your quality of life. Treatment should focus not only on pain but on getting back to daily activities and living your life to the fullest.
What causes joint pain?
The most common causes of joint pain include:
Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis, a common type of arthritis, happens over time when your cartilage — the protective cushion between your bones — wears away. Your joints become painful and stiff. Osteoarthritis develops slowly and usually occurs after age 45.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): RA is a chronic disease that causes swelling and pain in your joints. Often, your joints deform (usually occurring in your fingers and wrists).
Gout: Gout is a painful condition where acidic crystals from your body collect in your joint, causing severe pain and swelling. This usually occurs in your big toe.
Bursitis: Overuse causes bursitis. It’s usually found in your hip, knee, elbow or shoulder.
Tendinitis: Tendinitis is inflammation of your tendons — the flexible bands that connect bone and muscle. It’s typically seen in your elbow, heel or shoulder. Overuse often causes it.
Overweight (having a BMI, or body mass index, greater than 25) or obesity (having a BMI greater than 30).
Age is also a factor in stiff and painful joints. After years of use and wear and tear on your joints, problems may arise after age 45.
What is the treatment for joint pain?
Although there may not be a cure for joint pain, there are ways to manage it. Sometimes, the pain may go away by taking over-the-counter (OTC) medication or by performing simple daily exercises. Other times, the pain may be signaling problems that can only be corrected with prescription medication or surgery.
Joint pain treatment includes:
Simple at-home remedies: Your healthcare provider may recommend applying a heating pad or ice onto the affected area for short periods, several times a day. Soaking in a warm bathtub may also offer relief.
Exercise: Exercise can help get back strength and function. Walking, swimming or another low-impact aerobic exercise is best. People who participate in strenuous workouts or sports activities may need to scale it back or begin a low-impact workout routine. Gentle stretching exercises will also help. Check with your provider before beginning or continuing any exercise program.
Weight loss: Your provider may suggest losing weight, if needed, to lessen the strain on your joints.
Medication: Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help ease your pain. Both medicines are available over the counter, but stronger doses may need a prescription. If you have a history of stomach ulcers, kidney disease or liver disease, check with your provider to see if this is a good option for you.
Topical treatments: Your provider may recommend topical treatments like ointments or gels that you can rub into your skin over the affected joint area to help ease pain. You may find some of these over the counter, or your provider may write a prescription.
Dietary supplements: Dietary supplements like glucosamine may help relieve pain. Ask your provider before taking any over-the-counter supplements.
If those medications or treatments don’t ease your pain, your healthcare provider may prescribe:
Supportive aids — such as a brace, a cane or an orthotic device in your shoe — to help support your joint and allow ease of movement.
Physical or occupational therapy, along with a balanced fitness program, to gradually help ease pain and improve flexibility.
It’s important to remember that medicine, even those available over the counter, affects people differently. What helps one person may not work for another. Be sure to follow your provider’s directions carefully when taking any medicine and tell them if you have any side effects.
What surgical options are available to relieve joint pain?
Surgery may be an option if your joint pain is long-lasting and doesn’t lessen with drugs, physical therapy or exercise.
Surgical options that are available include:
Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is a procedure where a surgeon makes two or three small cuts (incisions) in the flesh over your joint. They get into your joint using an arthroscope — a thin, flexible, fiberoptic instrument — and repair your cartilage or remove bone chips in or near your joint.
Joint fusion
Joint fusion is a procedure in which a surgeon fastens together the ends of your bones, eliminating the joint. The surgeon may use plates, screws, pins or rods to hold your bones in place while they heal. Surgeons most commonly perform joint fusions on your hands, ankles and spine.
Osteotomy
During an osteotomy, a surgeon realigns or reshapes the long bones of your arm or leg to take pressure off the damaged portion of your joint. This procedure can help relieve pain and restore movement in your joint.
Joint replacement
If other treatments don’t help, you may need joint replacement surgery to replace your joint when the cartilage that cushions and protects the ends of your bones wears away. This can be done for hip, knee and shoulder joints. A surgeon removes parts of your bone and implants an artificial joint made from metal or plastic. This procedure has had excellent results and most people feel long-lasting pain relief after this type of surgery.
What symptoms of joint pain are cause for concern?
Symptoms of joint pain range from mild to disabling. Without cartilage, bones rub directly against each other as your joint moves. Symptoms can include:
Noisy joints, or clicking, grinding or snapping sounds when moving your joint.
Painful movement.
Difficulty bending or straightening your joint.
Loss of motion.
A hot and swollen joint. (This needs immediate evaluation.)
When should joint pain be treated by a healthcare provider?
If pain is interfering with your daily life activities, it’s time to talk to a healthcare provider about the problem. It’s important to diagnose the cause of your pain quickly and begin treatment to relieve pain and maintain healthy, functioning joints.
During the appointment, your provider will ask many questions to figure out what may be the cause of your pain. You should be ready to answer questions about:
Previous injuries to your joint.
When your joint pain began.
A family history of joint pain.
The type of pain you’re experiencing.
Your provider will perform an examination of the affected joint to see if there’s pain or limited motion. They’ll also look for signs of injury to your surrounding muscles, tendons and ligaments.
If necessary, your provider may also order X-rays or blood tests. X-rays can show if there’s joint deterioration, fluid in your joint, bone spurs or other issues that may be contributing to your pain. Blood tests will help confirm a diagnosis or rule out other diseases that may be causing your pain.
A note from QBan Health Care Services
Joint pain can be seen as a red flag — your body’s putting up the signal that something’s not quite right. Despite this warning, it’s not always easy to figure out why you’re in pain and how to fix it. If you’ve been experiencing joint pain, see your healthcare provider. They’ll ask you lots of questions to try to determine what’s going on. It may take some time and a little bit of trial and error, but eventually, you should start to feel some relief and be able to get back to the things you love.
Qban Health Care - Dominica 