Arthritis Specialist

Texas Pain Intervention Clinic

Ankit Maheshwari, MD

Interventional Pain Management located in McKinney, TX

If opening jars or other items becomes more difficult because of painful hands, or if climbing stairs produces pain in your knees, arthritis is often the first thing that comes to mind.

469-815-7622

Arthritis Q & A

What is Osteoarthritis and how is it different from rheumatoid arthritis?

Osteoarthritis occurs when the smooth cartilage joint surface wears out. Osteoarthritis usually begins in an isolated joint and is a slowly progressive degenerative process which affects everyone. It is a normal part of aging.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, which means that the immune system malfunctions and attacks the body’s own tissue. In this case, it attacks the synovial membrane that encases and protects the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis often targets several joints at one time and smaller joints are more prone to this disease than the larger joints.

At Texas Pain Intervention Clinic, our experienced medical team will do appropriate tests to determine which type of arthritis you have. Then we will develop an effective treatment plan and will explain your options.

What causes it?

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis affecting 27 million Americans. As life expectancy has increased and more people are living in to their 80s and 90s, the prevalence of osteoarthritis is increasing. Osteoarthritis develops gradually over several years, as the joint cartilage wears away. Eventually the bones of your joints rub against each other.

Rheumatoid arthritis (or RA) affects about one-tenth as many people. Rheumatoid arthritis, which can occur at most any age, is an autoimmune disease. The pain and stiffness of rheumatoid arthritis can develop and worsen over several weeks or a few months. In some cases, joint pain isn't the first sign of rheumatoid arthritis. It may also begin with flu-like symptoms, such as fatigue, fever, weakness, and minor joint aches.

Treatment Options

Osteoarthritis treatment: Treatment varies from one person to the next. Osteoarthritis is not reversible, but the symptoms can be managed. Dr. Maheshwari will work with you to determine the best treatment for you which may include physical therapy, pain medication, application of heat/ice, weight loss and/or surgery and when necessary, consider injections.

Rheumatoid arthritis treatment: treatment includes medicine, exercise, and lifestyle changes, which must continue throughout life. Finding treatment early can control the condition and prevent it from worsening. Dr. Maheshwari will work with your rheumatologist to help mitigate.