Understanding arthritis
Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints, making it harder to move and do everyday tasks. It can affect one joint or many, and symptoms can come and go or get worse over time. While arthritis can happen at any age—even in children—it is more common in older adults. There are different types of arthritis, but the most common are osteoarthritis, which comes from wear and tear on the joints, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition where the body attacks its own joints.
"If you're living with joint pain that's limiting your daily activities, you don't have to just tough it out," says David H. Michel, MD, Orthopedics at ARC Cedar Park Building B, ARC Medical Park Tower Orthopedics, and ARC Round Rock. "There are many treatments available that can help you feel better and stay active—our goal is to find the right plan for you."
What causes arthritis?
There are many things that can cause arthritis or make it worse:
- Age: As people get older, the cartilage in their joints wears down. This can lead to osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis.
- Overuse: Repeating the same movements at work or in sports can put stress on the joints.
- Genetics: Some types, like rheumatoid arthritis, run in families.
- Injuries: A past joint injury can lead to arthritis later in life.
- Obesity: Extra weight puts pressure on the joints, especially in the knees, hips, and back.
- Other factors: Infections, underlying conditions, or immune system problems can also lead to arthritis.
What are the symptoms of arthritis?
The signs of arthritis can vary, but common symptoms include:
- Joint pain or throbbing
- Swelling, redness, and inflammation in or around the joint
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or after resting
- Loss of range of motion
- Feeling weak or tired
If you're feeling any of these symptoms, talk to an orthopedic doctor or advanced practice clinician (APC). They can help diagnose the type of arthritis—whether it's osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or another form of arthritis—and create a treatment plan. This may include medication, lifestyle changes, or therapy to help manage the pain and protect your joints.
"With the right diagnosis and care, many patients find real pain relief and get back to doing what they love," says Dr. Michel. "You don't have to live in pain—there are many effective options to treat arthritis today."
About Dr. Michel
Dr. Michel specializes in hip and knee replacement surgery, as well as hip and knee care. He has a Fellowship in Adult Joint Reconstruction from Scripps Institute, La Jolla, CA.
Make an appointment today
Dr. Michel sees patients ages 55 and older. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Michel or APC Victoria R. DeMichel, PA-C, through ARC MyChart or by calling:
- ARC Round Rock at 512-244-9024
- ARC Medical Park Tower Orthopedics in Austin at 512-454-4561
- ARC Cedar Park Building B at 512-259-3467