Most chronic joint problems are due to arthritis, a collection of long-term conditions causing joint deterioration, stiffness, and pain. Visit Michigan Avenue Primary Care in The Loop of downtown Chicago, Illinois, if you need help managing your symptoms. Its dedicated medical professionals offer effective treatments and ongoing chronic disease management for patients with all forms of arthritis. Call Michigan Avenue Primary Care or request an in-person or telehealth appointment online for compassionate arthritis management.
Arthritis is a general term for diseases causing chronic joint pain. It has numerous forms — over 100 conditions come under the arthritis umbrella. Some cause widespread joint pain, while others affect specific joints. Many forms are rare, but the more common ones include:
Of these, Michigan Avenue Primary Care diagnoses and treats more patients with osteoarthritis than any other kind. The practice provides ongoing chronic disease management for patients with many forms of arthritis.
Arthritis has various causes. Infections can trigger septic arthritis, while gout develops when uric acid forms crystals in your joints — typically the big toe, but gout can also affect the knees and other joints.
Rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis are autoimmune disorders. They develop when your immune system has a flaw that makes it attack healthy cells.
Osteoarthritis develops over decades as wear-and-tear erodes the protective cartilage on the ends of bones. Without this tough, slippery coating, the bone ends catch and rub together, creating inflammation.
Arthritis symptoms vary according to your condition and its severity, but all forms cause long-term or recurring joint pain. Gout attacks are intense, causing hours or days of immense pain and heat before fading away. Autoimmune arthritic conditions can cause problems like fevers and digestive issues.
Osteoarthritis affects many joints, although it’s often worse in the hands, hips, and knees. The pain you feel may start as a dull ache but often increases into agonizing flares with reddened skin and swelling. The joints become stiff and may twist into distorted shapes. They’re likely to be weak, and you gradually lose function.
Arthritis symptoms often worsen as the disease progresses. They can be highly disabling, significantly reducing mobility and quality of life.
Although arthritis is incurable, Michigan Avenue Primary Care offers several treatments that help you manage your symptoms. These include:
Lifestyle changes are also crucial to managing arthritis symptoms. Excess body weight puts avoidable strain on the joints, so maintaining a healthy weight is vital. A nutritious diet, regular gentle exercise, and reducing stress can also make a significant difference.
Call Michigan Avenue Primary Care or book an appointment online today for expert long-term arthritis care.