Break free from the grip of chronic arthritis pain
Common signs and symptoms of joint inflammation
As the prevalence of arthritis continues to rise, it’s important to know the signs and symptoms of joint inflammation so you can seek treatment before it stops you from doing the things you love. Here are 5 common signs and symptoms of joint inflammation:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Heat (skin that is warm to the touch)
- Pain
- Loss of function
Treating a variety of conditions with safe, effective, compassionate care
The physicians of Arthritis & Rheumatology Associates of Palm Beach have extensive experience developing individualized treatment plans help individuals find lasting relief from pain associated with arthritis, autoimmune diseases and a number of rheumatic conditions. Our treatments focus on reducing pain and swelling, improving function and inhibiting progressive joint damage.
- Autoimmune disease
Autoimmune diseases occur when the body’s natural defense system (immune system) can’t tell the difference between healthy cells and foreign cells. As a result, it mistakenly attacks healthy cells, tissues and organs. An autoimmune disease can cause abnormal organ growth, change in organ functionality, and/or the destruction of one or more kinds of body tissue. - Ankylosing spondylitis (AS)
AS is an inflammatory autoimmune condition that typically begins in young adulthood, but often gets overlooked, or incorrectly diagnosed as pain from a previous injury or aging. It’s an under-diagnosed form of arthritis that creates inflammation in the spinal joints and causes chronic back pain and stiffness. People commonly feel pain in the lower back or buttocks region first, however it can migrate to other areas of the body like the hips, neck, or shoulders.
- Gout
Gout is a form of arthritis characterized by sudden and severe pain, redness, swelling and tenderness in the joints. Gout is most common in the large joint of the big toe but other joints may also suffer from painful inflammation. When a person has elevated blood uric acid it can crystalize and lead to the development of acute gout in the joints. This leads to an intense inflammatory response. - Lupus
Lupus is a chronic (long-term) inflammatory disease that can affect the joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, brain, heart and lungs. It is an autoimmune disease, which means the immune system attacks healthy cells and tissues by mistake. - Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis affecting millions of people across the world. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time. Although osteoarthritis can damage any joint, the disorder most commonly affects joints in the hands, knees, hips and spine. - Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that causes a loss of bone density and structural deterioration of bone tissue. This deterioration leads to bone fragility and increases a person’s risk of fracture. It is most commonly found in the hip, spine and wrist. Osteoporosis is a major public health threat for 44 million Americans, primarily women. Ten million individuals already have osteoporosis and 34 million more have low bone mass, placing them at increased risk for developing osteoporosis and resultant fractures. - Polymyalgia rheumatica
Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory disorder that causes muscle pain and stiffness, especially in the shoulders and hips. Signs and symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica usually begin quickly and are worse in the morning. Most people who develop polymyalgia rheumatica are older than 65. - Psoriatic arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritic inflammation that causes pain, stiffness and swelling in and around the joints, as well as sites of tendon and ligament connection to bone. Symptoms vary according to location and activity over time. Approximately 1 in 20 patients with psoriasis will develop arthritis with the skin condition. In most cases, psoriasis precedes the development of arthritis. - Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease characterized by inflammation of the lining of joints and surrounding tissues. Rheumatoid arthritis is considered an autoimmune disease, which usually affects joints on both sides of the body equally. If left untreated, it can lead to long-term joint damage, chronic pain, loss of function, and disability. - Scleroderma
Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease affecting the skin and other organs of the body, meaning the body’s immune system is causing inflammation and other abnormalities in these tissues. The main finding in scleroderma is thickening and tightening of the skin and inflammation and scarring of many body parts. - Vasculitis
Vasculitis is a term for a group of rare diseases that have common inflammation of blood vessels. These vessels include arteries and veins. There are many types of vasculitis, and they may vary greatly in symptoms, severity and duration. Most types of vasculitis are rare, and the causes are generally not known.
The skilled physicians at ARAPB have a combined experience of over 120 years and are dedicated to helping you achieve lasting relief from throbbing arthritis pain. We’re proud to be one of the largest and most highly regarded rheumatology practices in the country.
To learn more or schedule an appointment, please visit our Contact Us page to find a location near you.