Arthritis

Arthritis frequently affects the joints including cervical (neck) and low back (lumbar and  sacroiliac joint) in addition to hips, shoulders and knees.  This discomfort often stems from degeneration of the facet joints, sacroiliac joint or degenerative changes of the spine.  While wear and tear is common with age and activity, increased risk factors for injury include contact sports, horseback riding, weightlifting and motor vehicle collisions. Genetics, being overweight and leading a sedentary lifestyle can also lead to arthritis.

Types of Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is a common condition as we get older. The cartilage that cushions your joints (such as the knees or hips) gradually breaks down. Then the bones rub against each other. It can cause pain due to disc degeneration, bone spurs and spinal stenosis.  osteoarthritis may be more confined to single joints and side of the body Sometimes the disease can cause bumps called nodules to form over the elbows, knuckles, spine, and lower leg bones.

 Learn more about osteoarthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is often an immune condition that causes joint inflammation and usually affects both sides of the body and multiple joints at the same time. Over time, this inflammation may destroy the joint tissues. Rheumatoid arthritis is more common in women than in men and often begins between the ages of 40 and 60.

 Learn more about rheumatoid arthritis.

Neck arthritis often manifests through stiffness, reduced range of motion and difficulty turning your head.  Patients may experience pain in the neck or between shoulder blades that ranges from a dull ache to sharp sensations, accompanied by headaches and audible grinding or crackling noises.

Back arthritis symptoms include pain in the back, buttocks, or thighs, along with stiffness. Patients may also have trouble bending backwards or forwards, as well as challenges standing or sitting for prolonged periods.

Symptoms of Arthritis

The main symptoms of arthritis are:

• Pain and aching
• Stiffness and restriction movement
• Swelling in the joints of the hands, wrists, elbows, feet, ankles, knees, or neck
• Crackling and crunching sounds during movement

Less common symptoms include muscle weakness and  joint deformity.

Treatment Options for Arthritis

There are many treatments for arthritis that can help with the pain and make it easier to move. You and your doctor will work together to find what works best for you. 

• Exercise
• Physical therapy
• Anti-inflammatory medications, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines, (NSAIDS) steroids and hyaluronic acid
• Minimally invasive pain-relieving joint injections such as nerve blocks, radiofrequency ablation, peripheral nerve stimulation and platelet-rich plasma.

Why Choose Weill Cornell Medicine?

• The physicians at the Weill Cornell Medicine Division of Pain Management specialize in treating pain and symptoms associated with all types of arthritis.
• Our care team uses the latest research, the most advanced equipment and innovative therapies to diagnose pain and develop customized pain management plans for each patient.
• Weill Cornell Medicine often offers clinical trials, giving patients access to treatments that may not be available elsewhere. Learn more about Pain Management's current clinical trials.
• We also work closely with a broad team of specialists to provide the highest quality care.
• Learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we offer and contact us today to schedule a consultation.