Arthritis is one of the most common causes of chronic joint pain. It occurs when inflammation or degeneration affects one or more joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. With offices in Hobart, LaPorte, Merrillville, Munster and Valparaiso, Indiana, our experienced pain specialists diagnose and treat many types of arthritis using evidence-based therapies designed to reduce pain, restore function, and improve quality of life.
If arthritis pain is interfering with your daily activities, call us at 219-476-7246 or request an appointment online to explore your treatment options today.
Arthritis is a general term used to describe more than 100 conditions that affect the joints and surrounding tissues. These conditions can cause chronic pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased mobility. While arthritis can occur at any age, it becomes more common as people get older.
Some of the most common forms of arthritis include:
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and is often associated with aging or joint overuse. Over time, the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones gradually breaks down. As the cartilage wears away, the bones can rub against each other, leading to inflammation, stiffness, and pain.
Osteoarthritis most commonly affects the:
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation that can damage cartilage and bone over time.
Rheumatoid arthritis often affects multiple joints symmetrically and may lead to joint deformity if not properly managed.
Psoriatic arthritis occurs in some individuals who have psoriasis, a chronic skin condition. This autoimmune disorder causes joint inflammation along with skin symptoms such as scaly patches.
Psoriatic arthritis can affect joints throughout the body and may also cause swelling of fingers or toes.
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by buildup of uric acid crystals inside the joints. It most often affects the big toe but can also occur in the ankle, knee, or other joints.
Gout attacks typically develop suddenly and can cause severe pain, redness, and swelling.
Arthritis symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of the condition, but common signs include:
Symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen over time. Some people experience periods of flare-ups, where inflammation and pain temporarily increase.
Early diagnosis and treatment can help slow progression and improve joint function.
Although arthritis cannot always be cured, many treatments can reduce pain, improve joint mobility, and help patients maintain an active lifestyle.
At Centers for Pain Control, arthritis treatment plans are personalized based on the type of arthritis, affected joints, and severity of symptoms.
Initial treatment approaches often include:
For certain autoimmune forms of arthritis, medications that modify immune system activity may also be recommended in coordination with other specialists.
When conservative treatments are not enough, advanced pain management options may help provide longer-lasting relief.
Joint injections can reduce inflammation and pain within the joint. These injections may include a combination of local anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication, or specialized lubricating substances that help improve joint movement.
For persistent pain in larger joints such as the knee, minimally invasive nerve treatments may be used to disrupt the pain signals traveling from the joint to the brain.
These procedures can provide significant relief and may help patients delay or avoid more invasive treatments.
If arthritis pain is limiting your mobility or affecting your quality of life, the pain specialists at CPC can help.
Our team provides comprehensive arthritis pain management, including advanced interventional treatments designed to reduce inflammation and restore function.
Call us at 219-476-7246 or request an appointment online to explore your treatment options today.