Arthritis is a common type of joint inflammation. Over three million Americans experience some form of arthritis each year. The term arthritis includes over 100 different types of inflammatory joint conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, and lupus. Arthritis symptoms can cause joint stiffness, swelling, and soreness, especially in the shoulder, hip, knee, and hands.
If you would like to learn more about treatment for arthritis in Southern California, meet with a skilled orthopedic doctor at Dignity Health Southern California. To select one that’s right for you, use our online search tool to Find a Doctor.
While there are many forms of joint inflammation, they all include some degree of:
Certain types of arthritis have specific symptoms. For instance, if you have osteoarthritis, you may hear a clicking or crackling sound when you bend your joint (specifically in the knee or hip).
Other forms of arthritis may cause:
If you have one or more of these symptoms, meet with one of our orthopedists at Dignity Health Southern California for a diagnosis and to receive personalized care. Early treatment can stop pain from getting worse and prevent the loss of mobility.
Arthritis has a wide variety of causes. Certain forms have specific causes.
Risk factors for arthritis are:
Your doctor can diagnose your symptoms and pinpoint the type of arthritis you have through a variety of tests. These include a review of your medical history, a physical exam, X-rays, blood tests, joint fluid analysis, and if necessary, arthroscopy to assess a damaged joint.
While arthritis cannot be cured, medications and therapies can help reduce pain and inflammation. Your doctor may recommend physical and occupational therapy to help you maintain flexibility and mobility in your joints.
At Dignity Health, our orthopedic departments extend compassionate care to treat arthritis in Southern California, utilizing the latest therapies to help people enjoy more active lifestyles.