Arthritis: It's Not Just a Problem for the Elderly

Aching bones and joints due to arthritis aren’t just a problem that affects older people. While it’s true that the prevalence of arthritis and your risk of developing it rises sharply with age, a recent study revealed that nearly 30 million people between 18 and 64 were also suffering from the condition. What’s more, an estimated 300,000 children also have doctor-diagnosed arthritis that slows down their day-to-day activities.

At LA Pain Doctor in Metairie, Laplace, Harvey, Hammond, and Luling, Lousiana, our team treats people of all ages who struggle with arthritis. Let’s take a closer look at the disorder, its many symptoms, and how we can help you feel good again.

The basics of arthritis

“Arthritis” is a blanket term used to describe more than 100 painful musculoskeletal and joint conditions. Though its degenerative effects are often associated with aging, it can and frequently does impact people of every age, race, and gender. The type of arthritis you have generally falls into one of the following categories:

Degenerative

Also called osteoarthritis, causes cartilage deterioration, making your bones rub against one another from wear and tear over time.

Rheumatoid

Your immune system mistakenly attacks itself, causing widespread inflammation in your joints and other parts of your body, such as your skin, eyes, and lungs.

Metabolic

This type of arthritis is also commonly called gout. It develops when uric acid builds up in your joints and creates severe pain in your big toe, knees, feet, hands, and ankles.

The symptoms of arthritis

Arthritis symptoms can range from mild to severe. Most of the time, the problems come and go, but your symptoms may be chronic and debilitating in some cases.

• Joint soreness
• Swelling in joints
• Inflammation
• Impaired range of motion
• Morning stiffness
• Numbness
• Fatigue

Arthritis can also make you feel depressed. Roughly 33% of people with it are also being treated for low mood and melancholy.

Treatment options for arthritis

Whether young or old, arthritis is the leading cause of disability in America. At LA Pain Doctor, it’s our express goal to help you prevent your condition from progressing to the point that you cannot function well and enjoy the activities you love. 

Our first priority is to get you out of pain. Once that’s under control, we conduct a comprehensive physical evaluation and write a custom plan to reduce inflammation. Whether it’s steroid injection, tailored medications, or physical therapy, we’ll help you reclaim your quality of life. 

Call the office to make an appointment or schedule one online.