Overview
Arthritis is a general term for conditions that cause pain, swelling or stiffness in one or more joints. The two most common types are osteoarthritis, which involves gradual wear of the cartilage that cushions a joint, and inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis, in which the immune system targets the joint lining.
Arthritis can affect the spine, hips, knees, hands and other joints. Treatment depends on the type of arthritis, which joints are involved and how symptoms affect your daily life. At GSMC, rheumatology, orthopaedic, sports medicine and pain management clinicians may work together on a plan.
Watch: Arthritis explained
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Common symptoms
- Joint pain that is worse with activity or after rest
- Morning stiffness
- Swelling, warmth or tenderness around a joint
- Reduced range of motion
- A grinding or catching feeling in the joint
Causes and risk factors
- Age-related cartilage wear (osteoarthritis)
- Autoimmune inflammation (for example rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis)
- Previous joint injury
- Excess body weight placing load on joints
- Family history
How it is diagnosed
Your clinician will review your history, examine the joint and may order X-rays, ultrasound, MRI or blood tests to look for inflammation or other causes.
Treatment options
Care is stepped: most people start with self-care and physical therapy, and move to the next step only if pain continues. Some problems, such as nerve weakness, may skip ahead. Your exam, imaging and goals decide which options fit you.
Self-care and lifestyle
Regular low-impact activity, healthy weight, heat for stiffness and joint protection may help.
Physical therapy and medications
Physical therapy and medicines; for inflammatory arthritis, disease-modifying medicines from a rheumatologist.
Injections and nerve blocks
Joint injections (corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid) may ease pain in a flare.
Minimally invasive procedures
Genicular or facet radiofrequency ablation may be options for selected patients; PRP is an evolving, usually self-pay option.
Surgical evaluation
Orthopaedic surgical evaluation, such as arthroscopy or joint replacement referral, when other care is not enough.
Learn how we approach care: our care philosophy · nonsurgical options · second opinions.
When to seek urgent care
Seek prompt care for a hot, red, swollen joint with fever, inability to bear weight after an injury, sudden severe symptoms, or any symptom that worries you.
Frequently asked questions
Is arthritis curable?
Most forms of arthritis are long-term conditions. Treatment aims to reduce pain, protect joint function and keep you active. Your clinician will discuss which options fit your type of arthritis.
Which GSMC specialist should I see for arthritis?
It depends on the type. Inflammatory arthritis is usually managed by rheumatology. Osteoarthritis may be treated by sports medicine, orthopaedics or pain management. If you are unsure, call us and we will help you book the right first visit.
Will I need surgery?
Many people manage arthritis with exercise, weight management, medication and injections. Surgery is considered only when other measures have not provided enough relief.
This page is general patient education and does not replace advice from your own clinician. Individual results vary.