Spine, Neck & Back Arthritis Treatment

Arthritis Diagnosis & Treatment In Wayne, New Jersey

Arthritis is an unfortunate risk and reality as people age. If you or a loved one is struggling with arthritis in the back, spine, or neck, know that there are ways to slow the condition’s progress. High Mountain Orthopedics is a top clinic with locations in Wayne, New Jersey. We can help you manage your symptoms so you can maintain a high quality of life for years to come.

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a common condition that causes cartilage to break down. Cartilage is the hard, slippery tissue responsible for binding bones together and cushioning the joints, allowing the body to move freely. As cartilage breaks down, joints lose that valuable cushion, and flexibility and mobility decrease. Meanwhile, bones start to rub against each other as the individual moves. This grinding results in a range of recognizable symptoms, including:

• Pain and stiffness
• Loss of flexibility
• Swelling or tenderness
• Inflammation
• Pain that worsens in the morning or after long periods of sitting

Arthritis is uncomfortable, and it worsens over time. The cartilage will continue to deteriorate while bones deform and crack due to the chafing. While the condition cannot be reversed, medical treatment can help you slow its progress and maintain a higher quality of life for longer.

Types of Arthritis and Their Causes

The most common cause of arthritis is simple wear and tear to cartilage over time. It is a natural progression that occurs as individuals age. In some cases, however, the condition is related to some other cause. Osteoarthritis, in particular, can be hastened or worsened by a variety of factors, such as:

• Infections or underlying diseases, including psoriasis or lupus
• Deposits of uric acid crystals
• Joint injuries that heal incompletely or improperly

The second type of arthritis, called rheumatoid arthritis, is an autoimmune disease. While it is most common in older populations, its cause is not from regular wear. Rather, rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system begins to attack joints and cartilage throughout the body. Like osteoarthritis, this type can worsen over time and is most effectively treated when it is diagnosed early.

Our Arthritis Treatments

Currently, the medical field has no cure for arthritis of either kind. There are ways to manage it, however. One of the most effective methods is physical therapy. Low-impact exercises, gentle stretching, and guided movements can improve a patient’s range of motion and increase mobility that has been limited by arthritis. It may also help strengthen the muscles, relieving pressure on the joints.

Medications may also provide short-term relief. Painkillers reduce the patient’s discomfort, while anti-inflammatory medications reduce the swelling. In the case of rheumatoid arthritis, immune inhibitors can slow the disease’s progress and prevent it from causing more damage. Because inhibitors may have other effects, it’s important to discuss this possibility with a doctor to make sure you understand the risks and benefits.

Treating Arthritis in Northern New Jersey

If you are struggling with arthritis in your back, spine, or neck, seek help today. High Mountain Orthopedics is dedicated to doing all we can to help you maintain your quality of life. We have locations in Wayne, NJ, serving each region with high-quality care for arthritis and other conditions. To learn more, contact us to request an appointment. We’re also happy to schedule a telemedicine consultation to discuss your symptoms and the possibility of treatment.