Seasoned orthopedists carry the skills and knowledge needed to effectively diagnose arthritis. While these certified professionals can be trusted for accurate results, patients can also benefit from understanding the examination process for themselves. This guide follows the steps of how an orthopedist diagnoses arthritis to broaden patients’ perspectives of what to expect when seeking treatment.
Schedule a consultation with Orthopaedic Medical Group of Wesley Chapel today for comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for arthritis near you.
Diagnosing Arthritis
An orthopaedic surgeon uses a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests to determine if a patient has arthritis.
1. Medical History and Symptoms
The first step in diagnosing arthritis involves discussing the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. The surgeon may ask questions such as:
- When did the pain start?
- Which joints are affected?
- Does the pain worsen with activity or improve with rest?
- Are there any family members with arthritis?
Understanding these details helps narrow down the potential type of arthritis.
2. Physical Examination
During a physical exam, the orthopaedic surgeon assesses:
- Joint swelling, warmth, or redness
- Range of motion and stiffness
- Pain levels during movement
- Joint stability and alignment
3. Imaging Tests
To confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of joint damage, imaging tests are crucial:
- X-rays reveal joint space narrowing, bone spurs, and cartilage loss, which are common in osteoarthritis.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) provides a detailed view of soft tissues, cartilage, and early arthritis changes.
- Ultrasound helps evaluate inflammation in soft tissues and joint linings.
4. Laboratory Tests
For inflammatory arthritis like RA, blood tests may be necessary to check for markers such as:
- Rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-CCP antibodies
- C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) to measure inflammation
- Joint fluid analysis to detect infection or gout
Treatment Plans for Arthritis
Once diagnosed, the orthopaedic surgeon tailors a treatment plan based on the arthritis type, severity, and the patient’s lifestyle.
1. Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatments
Most patients start with non-invasive treatments, including:
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and swelling.
- Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises, stretching, and joint-friendly activities (such as swimming) improve mobility.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Weight management, activity adjustments, and joint protection techniques help reduce strain.
- Orthobiologic Injections: Regenerative treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or stem cell therapy promote joint healing. PRP injections
2. Surgical Options
If conservative treatments fail, surgery may be recommended:
- Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to clean out damaged tissue and cartilage.
- Joint Replacement: In severe cases, total or partial joint replacement (hip, knee, or shoulder) provides long-term relief.
Orthopaedic Medical Group of Wesley Chapel Diagnoses and Treats Arthritis
Treating arthritis starts with an accurate diagnosis. Get diagnosed for arthritis by calling Orthopaedic Medical Group of Wesley Chapel today at (813) 684-2663 to schedule a consultation appointment. We offer comprehensive services for treating all types of arthritis with compassionate care and optimal results. We will walk you through your customized treatment plan and suggest ways to improve your condition for a healthier lifestyle.
