Rheumatoid Arthritis
About 1.5 million people in the U.S. have rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Those with RA have immune systems that malfunction and attack joints, triggering swelling and pain. This inflammation is often symmetrical – if one knee hurts, the other one does too. Aggressive action to control RA can prevent damage, but cannot reverse what has already happened, so getting a proper diagnosis and early treatment is important for your long-term health. Make an appointment with our office today to learn how we can provide support.
Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic condition in which the body’s immune system goes awry. Rather than battling foreign germs, it instead attacks the joints. About 30% of people with skin psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis, but it can occur in anyone. PsA affects large joints, fingers, toes, back, and pelvis. For many, appropriate treatments will relieve pain, protect the joints, and maintain mobility. Early diagnosis is important to avoid permanent damage and improve your quality of life. Make an appointment to learn how we can help.
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a form of arthritis that primarily affects the spine, especially the joints at the base of the spine. It is is different from other types of arthritis, because it involves inflammation where ligaments and tendons attach to the bone, rather than inside of joints. It causes inflammation between vertebrae that can lead to severe, chronic pain and discomfort. AS can also cause pain in other parts of the body. Treatments and medications are available to reduce symptoms and manage discomfort. Make an appointment to learn how we can help.
Gout
People with gout experience intense attacks of pain, redness and tenderness in joints – often at the base of the big toe. Gout is a complex form of arthritis, and occurs when urate crystals collect in your body, causing inflammation. Gout can affect anyone. Men are more likely to develop it, but women are also at risk after menopause. Attacks often occur at night. A joint becomes hot, swollen and extremely tender and painful. Gout is treatable. Make an appointment with our physicians to learn about ways to reduce the risk that gout will recur, and to manage it when it does.
Lupus
Lupus occurs when your immune system mistakenly creates antibodies that attack and destroy healthy tissue. It can be difficult to diagnose, because symptoms of lupus often mimic those of other ailments. It strikes women of childbearing age for the most part, but, men, children, and teenagers can develop it as well. Lupus has periods when it flares and then improves, and can range from mild to life-threatening. If you are concerned that you may have lupus, make an appointment to learn how we can help.
Other Conditions Treated
• Sjogren syndrome
• Raynaud's phenomenon
• Mixed connective tissue disease
• Inflammatory myositis
• Scleroderma
• Vasculitis
• Polymyalgia rheumatica
