Blog Category

Month: June 2016

Categories
Conditions General Treatments

Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment for Arthritis Sufferers

Read Blog

One of the most common afflictions among people in the United States is arthritis. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis, and while many of them have the same types of signs and symptoms, there are some differences that are important to note.

Osteoarthritis

Symptoms can include pain in the joints. Sufferers can feel pain in the joint during movement as well as after movement. The affected area may also be tender to the touch, even if there is only a minimal amount of pressure applied to the joint. Many sufferers also complain that they feel stiff when they wake up in the morning. They also lose a substantial amount of flexibility in their hands (and other joints). The joint could also develop bone spurs. This occurs due to the wearing away of the cartilage at the end of the joints.

This type of arthritis can affect many people, and there are a variety of different risk factors that come into play. Those who are older are at risk, as the cartilage in the joints tends to wear down with age. Women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis than men. Those who have suffered from joint injuries in the past could be at a higher risk as well. In addition, workplace factors (jobs that have repetitive motions), genetics, and other diseases can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

RA is another common type of arthritis, and this can be more dangerous than other forms of arthritis as it can affect the organs in the body. It can be difficult to detect RA, but there are some symptoms to consider. Those who have RA tend to have injuries that will be difficult to heal. They may also feel a tingling or numb sensation in their hands. This can sound similar to carpal tunnel. RA can also cause eye problems, foot problems, and aching joints. If you go to the doctor, make sure you tell him or her about all of your symptoms so you receive a proper diagnosis.

What Treatments Are Available?

Fortunately, there are a number of ways to treat arthritis today. Doctors may recommend some lifestyle changes for a start. They may want you to stop smoking and to get more exercise, which can promote feeling better in general. They may also offer pain medications, or suggest over the counter medications to help with the pain. Physical therapy can help as well. However, you want to make sure that you receive your exercises from an actual physical therapist so you can be sure you arent doing anything that could aggravate your arthritis further.

In some cases, the doctor may feel that surgery is the best option for you. You can discuss the surgical choices available. They may want to fuse the joints, which can help to relieve pain, clear out some of the inflamed areas, or even replace the joints.

Whenever you are suffering from any type of injury to the hand, whether it is arthritis or something else entirely, please call or visit our hand doctor’s office in Howell, Warren, West Bloomfield, or Macomb to get in touch with a medical professional. You need to have a proper diagnosis if you are expected to heal.

Categories
Elbows General

What Are Overuse Injuries of the Elbow? – Michigan Hand and Wrist Surgery

Read Blog

The human body can only take so much. When you are constantly repeating an action that puts stress and pressure on a part of the body, such as the elbow, it will eventually break down. The body needs time to heal, and if you do not give it that time, the problems and the pain will only get worse down the line.

How Do the Injuries Occur?

Whenever someone does the same motions repeatedly without enough rest, it causes the tendons and ligaments in the elbow to work harder than they are meant to work. Unless someone is able to give the elbow time to rest, they could suffer from an overuse injury. Athletes who are repeatedly using the same motions for throwing are susceptible to this type of injury. It can also affect those who have an occupation that requires repetitive motion of the elbow. Its important to note that children are at a high risk because their bodies are not able to handle the same amount of stress as an adult.

What Are the Symptoms?

Some of the most common symptoms of an overuse injury in the elbow include pain and tenderness in the affected area. In addition, the elbow could swell, which can limit mobility. Some patients also report a numb feeling or a tingling sensation in the elbow. The joint may also start to make popping sounds when it is moved.

Treatment Options

It is best to catch potential overuse injuries as early as possible, as they will be easier to treat. In the beginning, it is often possible to remedy the situation with plenty of rest for the affected area. The doctor may also prescribe anti-inflammatory medications, and they may advise you to put cold compresses on the elbow to help with swelling. Physical therapy is another option to try. To help the elbow rest, the doctor may want you to use a splint or a brace on the elbow.

These methods can be effective in treatment. However, those who do not respond to these options may need to talk with their doctor about surgery. The same is true for those who have a severe condition. The surgery can help to remove some of the inflamed areas, which should alleviate the pain. The healing time for the surgery will vary by patient, so you will need to speak with your doctor about what to expect and your overall prognosis after the surgery. They will also let you know what types of therapy can help you get your strength and range of motion back.

Do Not Ignore the Problem

Your elbows are very important joints and if they have issues, it will affect your ability to do many of the things that you now take for granted. If you notice issues with your elbow, start by resting the area, but make sure you make an appointment with the doctor to get a proper diagnosis. The earlier you realize that you are suffering from an overuse injury the sooner you will be able to make changes and start to heal.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with a Michigan Hand and Wrist Surgeon, please contact us at either (248) 485-8300 or (734) 943-3838.

Bill Payment Made Easy

Pay on the Go!

Get on the List

Subscribe

Patient

Stories

Read All

Dr. Aroras office from my first call to schedule my appointment was friendly. Walking in the first day, I felt like I was in a nice atmosphere. Dr. Arora was EXCELLENT in taking great care of my hand injury. He was gentle and very understanding to the concerns I had about my hand. His expertise was admirable and I would recommend anyone with an injury to their hand to his office to be under his care. Because of him, I have healed faster than expected and will make an 100% recovery! Thank you Dr.

Jackie S.

I first thought I was going to have to have painful injections or surgery, but Dr. Arora suggested physical therapy may do the trick. I was doubtful, but I agreed to do it. Now, my pain is gone, and with the help of an ergonomic keyboard at work to keep my hands in the correct position, I am virtually pain free. The therapy strengthened my wrists and shoulders, and built more flexibility into my wrists.

Jerry T.

My experience with this doctor was positive from the outset. Dr. Arora was kind and spent a great deal of time with me. Staff was friendly. The office was nice and bright.

Ariel G.

Very friendly and helpful Great staff!!! Doctor Arora was very professional and did great work. I was very happy with everything!

L B.