Natural aging processes and cumulative wear-and-tear can put you at risk of arthritis as you get older.
Our rheumatologists can help through support for lifestyle changes, medication, rehabilitation therapy and more.
Our team’s goal is to improve your quality of life by helping you manage your symptoms, improve function, and slow disease progression.
As you get older, the wear and tear of daily life and natural aging processes increase your risk of arthritis. But with proper care, it’s possible to manage pain and continue the activities you enjoy.
In Regional One Health’s rheumatology practice, Dr. Syed Raza, Dr. Iman Abutineh, and Dr. Adela Castro can help aging patients alleviate symptoms and improve mobility to enhance their overall quality of life.
There are several ways aging contributes to arthritis risk.
The cumulative impact of daily activities can wear down cartilage, especially in weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips. Older bodies don’t repair and regenerate cartilage and other joint tissues as well, which makes the problem worse.
At the same time, aging often means increased body fat, which puts more stress on your joints. You’re also losing muscle mass, which reduces support around your joints.
Finally, chronic low-grade inflammation increases with age, which makes arthritis worse.
Rheumatologists can prescribe NSAIDs, corticosteroids, DMARDs, biologics and other medications to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and slow disease progression.
It may sound like a grim situation, but there’s plenty doctors can do!
If you’re experiencing persistent joint pain, stiffness (especially in the morning), swelling, and/or reduced range of motion, see a rheumatologist.
Your rheumatologist will start by getting an accurate diagnosis. There are several types of arthritis related to aging.
Osteoarthritis is the most common. Cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones gets worn down, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. It usually affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine.
Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the lining of the membranes that surround the joints, leading to inflammation and pain. It can eventually lead to joint damage. Symptoms usually start between age 40 and 60.
Gout, which occurs when uric acid accumulates, causes sudden and severe pain, redness, and swelling. Older adults are more prone to gout because it is linked to decreased kidney function.
While there is no cure for arthritis, a rheumatologist can help you manage your symptoms.
Arthritis can be mild, severe, or anything in between, so Dr. Raza, Dr. Abutineh and Dr. Castro design customized treatment plans for each patient’s needs and goals.
For many arthritis patients, physical and occupational therapy can help improve symptoms and function.
Lifestyle modifications benefit most patients.
Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and doing low-impact exercise reduces stress on your joints and improves your overall health. Patients can see a physical therapist to learn exercises tailored to improving joint function, muscle strength, and overall mobility.
Rheumatologists can also prescribe medications targeted to each patient’s specific diagnosis. These can include NSAIDs, corticosteroids, DMARDs, and biologics. The goal is to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and slow disease progression.
For some patients, canes, braces and other assistive devices are a good option to support joints and reduce strain. If a patient has severe arthritis, they might need surgery to repair or replace a damaged joint. The rheumatology team at Regional One Health works closely with physical and occupational therapists and pharmacists to provide comprehensive arthritis care.
No matter what, care is focused on improving your quality of life. When you live with chronic pain and stiffness, hobbies like sports, music, cooking, etc. can feel out of reach, and even ordinary activities like walking and getting dressed are more difficult. A rheumatologist can help you stay independent and keep doing the things you enjoy!