Arthritis Specialists In San Marcos, TX

Q: What are the most common types of arthritis?

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common types of arthritis in the US. Other common types of arthritis include Rheumatoid Arthritis, Gout, and Fibromyalgia.

Q: Am I at risk for arthritis?

There are certain factors that make it more or less likely that you will develop arthritis. Common risk factors include being overweight or obese, having a history of joint injuries, certain infections, occupation, and smoking.

Q: Can getting the flu complicate arthritis issues?

Inflammatory arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can increase the likelihood of complications when you have the flu. Possible complications include bronchitis, sinus infection, pneumonia, and ear infection. Inflammatory arthritis can increase vulnerability to flu-related complications due to a weakened immune system.

Q: Can kids get arthritis?

Yes, unfortunately, children can also suffer from arthritis. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, also known as childhood arthritis or juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, is the most common type of arthritis for children. Symptoms may include joint pain, swelling, fever, stiffness, rash, fatigue, loss of appetite, and inflammation of the eyes. Early detection and treatment are crucial as childhood arthritis can cause permanent damage to the affected joints.

Q: Is arthritis preventable?

While you cannot prevent all types of arthritis, there are certain risk factors that you can control to reduce your risk. These include maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding joint injuries, and not smoking.

Understanding Arthritis: Impact and Management

At the Greater Austin Pain Center's San Marcos location, we specialize in managing and treating arthritis, which encompasses over 100 different conditions affecting the joints and surrounding tissues. Arthritis primarily involves the degradation of cartilage, the resilient material at the ends of bones, which ensures smooth joint movement. When this cartilage deteriorates, it leads to painful, bone-on-bone contact within the joint.

Additionally, arthritis affects the synovium, a membrane that produces synovial fluid to lubricate joints. This fluid not only facilitates smooth movements but also nourishes the cartilage and reduces friction, essential for maintaining joint health. In arthritis, the reduction in synovial fluid contributes to increased wear and tear on the ligaments, the tough bands connecting bones, which can lead to instability and discomfort.

Common Forms of Arthritis

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, the most prevalent form of arthritis, affects approximately 21 million people in the U.S. It involves the breakdown of joint cartilage, leading to pain, swelling, and restricted movement, especially in weight-bearing joints such as the hips, knees, and spine. Over time, the lack of cartilage leads to the development of osteophytes or bone spurs, which exacerbate joint pain and mobility issues.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis represents a chronic, autoimmune condition characterized by the inflammation of the synovial membrane. This inflammation can lead to the destruction of both cartilage and bone within the joint. Common symptoms include persistent pain, stiffness, and swelling, which can occur even during periods of rest. Rheumatoid arthritis frequently affects smaller joints, such as those in the hands and feet, although it can also impact larger joints, including the knees, hips, and elbows.

Causes of Arthritis

Aging: Natural degeneration of joint cartilage over time.
Regular Wear and Tear: Due to lifestyle and activities.
Trauma: Injuries that impact joint health.
Inflammatory Disease: Conditions that trigger joint inflammation.

Symptoms of Arthritis

Inflammation in the joints.
Difficulty moving affected joints.

Treatment Approaches in San Marcos

Non-Surgical Methods: Includes over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers, and temporary joint rest.
Physical Therapy: To strengthen muscles around joints and improve mobility.
Joint Injections: For targeted relief in areas like the knee, hip, shoulder, and ankle.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): A non-operative treatment involving injections that use a patient's own platelets to promote healing.
Viscosupplementation: This involves injecting hyaluronic acid into the knee to mimic the fluid lost in osteoarthritis, aiding in pain relief and mobility.

How Arthritis Affects the Body

At Greater Austin Pain Center's San Marcos branch, our expertise lies in addressing the complexities of arthritis. Arthritis refers to conditions that cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling due to inflammation. It affects the cartilage—the cushioning material on the ends of bones in joints—leading to its deterioration. This results in painful bone friction and restricted movement.

In addition to affecting cartilage, arthritis impacts the synovial membrane which produces synovial fluid. This fluid serves as a lubricant and cushion for joints, aiding in smooth movement and reducing friction. In arthritic conditions, this fluid's production may diminish, exacerbating discomfort due to increased friction and stress on ligaments, which are crucial for bone.

Our specialists at Greater Austin Pain Center in San Marcos are dedicated to providing personalized, effective arthritis care. By integrating various non-surgical treatments and collaborating with skilled therapists, we aim to enhance joint function and reduce pain, ultimately improving your quality of life. If you are experiencing joint discomfort, schedule a consultation with our team to explore your treatment options and embark on your journey to better joint health.

What are the most common types of arthritis?

Osteoarthritis: The most prevalent form, characterized by cartilage breakdown.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease causing inflammation of the joints.
Gout: Causes sudden, severe attacks of pain and swelling.
Fibromyalgia: A condition that causes pain all over the body.

Woman at elevators in front of San Antonio Eye Specialists sign.

Am I at risk for arthritis?

Several factors can increase the risk of developing arthritis. While some factors like genetics are beyond control, lifestyle choices and treatments can significantly influence outcomes. Common risk factors include:

Overweight and Obesity: Excess weight puts more pressure on joints, especially knees, hips, and spine.
Infection: Some microbial infections can trigger joint inflammation.
Joint Injuries: Injuries can lead to or worsen arthritis.
Your Occupation: Jobs that demand repetitive joint movement can increase risk.
Smoking: Smoking is linked to rheumatoid arthritis.

Testimonials

"I am so relieved I could cry! Finally a pain specialist who listens, cares, and wants to help! Dr. Alan Silberberg has given me so much hope! As someone who has seen pain specialists for decades in different states, this is where you want to come. You NEED him in your life! My only regret is not coming in sooner."

Sarah Jean C.

"The staff is very friendly and I was seen on time. The intake process was seamless and efficient. Dr. Jarzombeck is always very kind and thorough in her explanations. These folks are a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend Greater Austin Pain Center and Dr. Jarzombeck!"

Kim D.

"Everyone is always very nice and courteous. Dr. Julia is amazing! He is friendly, kind and caring and so easy to talk with. All the office staff I have had contact with has always been courteous and kind as well. Would highly recommend coming here!"

Lesley C.

Frequently Asked Questions for Greater Austin Pain Center in San Marcos, TX

Can getting the flu complicate arthritis issues?

Yes, individuals with inflammatory arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis are more susceptible to complications from the flu due to a weakened immune system. Complications can include:

Bronchitis
Sinus infection
Pneumonia
Ear infection

Can kids get arthritis?

Yes, children can develop arthritis:

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA): The most common type affecting children, which can cause joint pain, swelling, fever, stiffness, rash, fatigue, loss of appetite, and eye inflammation.

Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to manage symptoms and prevent joint damage.