All About Arthritis
SouthCrest physician informs the public on inflammation and many other types of arthritis
Have you ever tried to get out of bed but stiffness and joint pain stops you in your tracks? Welcome to the world of an arthritis sufferer. In some cases, arthritis, also commonly referred to as joint inflammation, can be debilitating, but with the proper diagnosis and correct care from your physician it can be managed, allowing the patient to perform normal daily activities.
There are over 100 different types of arthritis; the most common types include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Common symptoms include swelling, pain and stiffness which occur because an area in and around a joint becomes inflamed. This can result in difficulty with movement.
What causes arthritis?
Joint inflammation is believed to be our body’s reaction to injury or disease. The actual cause of several types of arthritis is unknown; however, there are many risk factors that are believed to lead to the condition.
Age: It seems the older we get the more prone to joint pain we become.
Gender: Women are more likely to develop arthritis than men.
Obesity: Being overweight will put strain on joints and can cause discomfort. Excess weight increases the wear and tear on the joints and can lead to arthritis.
Your job: Certain occupations including heavy lifting and repetitive movement cause stress and potential injury to the joints.
Although arthritis is very common, it can be managed. This can be achieved by maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, eating a healthy diet and protecting the joints by exercising proper posture and lifting techniques.
“If a patient comes to their physician early with arthritis symptoms, the physician can recommend to the patient how to manage their care through lifestyle changes,” said H. Dwight Hardy, D.O. If symptoms persist and worsen, arthritis can be managed and treated medically. “Treatment options may include lifestyle changes, medications and in some cases surgery” says Dr. Hardy.
Dr. Hardy is board-certified in family medicine and is an Aviation Medical Examiner. He graduated from Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed the residency program at the University of Oklahoma Department of Family Medicine. He has practiced in the Tulsa area for 25 years. Dr. Hardy is in group practice with Mingo Valley Medical Group, a practice affiliated with SouthCrest Medical Group.
For more information regarding SouthCrest Hospital and its full menu of services, please visit southcresthospital.com.
