For patients who have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, Drs. Muralikrishna and Sheela Bhat, along with their team of specialists, can create long-term treatment plan that fits each patient’s specific situation.
Read more below about symptoms and treatment parameters to find out the best way to proceed if you suffer from osteoarthritis.
Symptoms
Typical symptoms of osteoarthritis can be a challenge to detect, but there are a few obvious ones. Look for the following symptoms to determine if you should ask your doctor about your chances of having osteoarthritis:
- Joint pain, during or after use
- Neck and back pain
- Generalized pain in your joints when the weather changes
- Post-use stiffness or swelling of a joint or group of joints (especially in the hands)
- Bony protrusions, known as nodes, on the finge
Always speak with your doctor if you develop any symptoms of osteoarthritis. That way, a correct diagnosis can be made as early as possible and a treatment plan can be implemented.
Causes and Treatment
Most researchers believe that osteoarthritis is a result of mechanical stress, but a tendency to develop the disease can also be inherited. You should be especially vigilant if you:
- Are female
- Have parents or grandparents who suffered from the disease
- Already have injuries to your joints
- Are obese or constantly struggle with being overweight
- Are 45 or older
While there is no definitive cure for osteoarthritis, numerous treatment options are available. Drugs and topical pain relievers are the most common, though in severe cases where extreme pain leads to depression, doctors will sometimes prescribe anti-depressants. Surgical approaches include joint replacement or removal of bone fragments. Patients are encouraged to exercise, control their weight and maintain a healthy diet to minimize pain and other symptoms.
At Bhat Internal Medicine, we accept most major insurance plans. If you have a specific question about your particular coverage, please call us at your convenience.
Our goal is to make certain that every one of our clients gets the best possible care in a relaxed and safe environment. To schedule an appointment or get more information, contact our office at 520-290-9151. We look forward to providing you with the very best treatment and the most attentive medical care available.
Dr. Muralikrishna Bhat and Dr. Sheela Bhat are Tucson internist with a quarter-century of experience treating osteoarthritis and other serious conditions. If you have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, or if you think you might be displaying symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact Drs. Bhat’s office.