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Osteoarthrisits is the most common form of arthritis and affects appoximately 50 million Americans. Most people are affected as they age, although some patients experience osteoarthritis at a younger age as a result of injury or overuse. Most patients experience osteoarthritis in weight-bearing joints such as the hip, knee and spine. Any joint that has been extensively used in sports or work, or a previously fractured or injured joint may also be affected. Osteoarthritis usually occurs after age 50 and often in an individual with a family history of arthritis. In this form of the disease, the articular cartilage conditioning the ends of the bone wears away. The bones then rub against each other, causing hip pain and stiffness. Often, bone growths called "spurs" may develop, causing pain and swelling in the affected joint. Periods of rest may offer some relief from this pain. Causes of Osteoarthritis: Although you can get osteoarthritis without having any risk factors, you may be more likely to be affected if you have a famiy history of the disease. If you are elderly, obese, or have previosuly injured joints, the stress on your joints may make you more susceptible to the disease. Symptoms of Osteoarthritis:  Pain flares when you're active and gets better when you rest. Stiff and inflamed joints, paticularly in the morning. |
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Most patients experience rhumatoid arthritis at middle age, although people of all ages may be affected. Rhumatoid arthritis is a disease in which the synovial membrane becomes inflamed, produces too much synovial fluid and damages the articular cartilage, leading to pain and stiffness. RA usually affects both sides of the body, including the hands, feet, hips, knees, and elbows. Causes of rheumatoid arthritis: There is usually a "trigger," such as an infection or environmental factor, which activates the genes and leads to the development of rhumatoid arthritis. When exposed to this trigger, the immune system responds by beginning to produce substances that attack the joint. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis: Swelling, pain, and stiffness in the joint, even when it is not being used. A feeling of warmth around the joint. Joint deformities and contractures. Developing nodules, or lumps, particularly around the elbow. Systemic symptoms, including fever, anemia and loss of appetite and energy. |
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Avascular Necrosis of the Hip: Avascular necrosis occurs when the blood supply to the ball of the hip joint is damaged. The ball portion of the femur bone may die and eventually weaken or even collapse. Avascular necrosis of the hip occurs because most of the weight is concentrated in this area. As a result of the flattening, the ball no longer fits perfectly inside the socket causing the joint to wear itself out. This leads to osteoarthritis of the hip joint. The same process can occur in the knee and shoulder. Causes of avascular necrosis: An injury to the hip can damage the blood vessels. A fracture of the femoral neck (the area just under the ball of the hip joint) can damage the blood vessels. A dislocation of the hip can tear the blood vessels. It usually takes several months for AVN to show up, but it can be a problem for up to two years following injuries like these. Avascular necrosis has been linked to alcoholism, fractures and dislocations of the hip, and long term cortisone treatment for other diseases. Symptoms of avascular necrosis Pain with weightbearing. A limp and/or stiffness in the hip joint.
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 Treatment for arthritis is as unique as every patient is. You will work together with Dr. Caillouette to develop a strategy that works best for you. Some patients may find the relief they need with drug treatments or less-invasive procedures such as joint injections or cartilage transplants, while others may require surgery to relieve their pain. Explore non-surgical measures and less-invasive treatments in Managing Arthritis. Explore Surgical Procedures. |
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