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According to the Arthritis Foundation, more than 50 million Americans suffer from arthritis — and there are more than 100 different kids of arthritis and musculoskeletal recognized by the medical community. Arthritis is an often painful condition that causes swelling, inflammation, and stiffness of the joints. Over time, this can lead to changes in mobility and even disability.
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string(3378) "Arthritis at the base of the thumb is one of the most common sites of osteoarthritis in the hand. Thumb arthritis is more commonly seen in women than in men, and typically occurs after age 40. Here is a closer look at the details of the condition, as well as its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.
Anatomy and Mechanics of the Thumb Joint
The thumb joint is formed as a saddle-shaped coupling between the trapezium (one of the wrist bones) and the first metacarpal (first bone of the thumb). This joint allows the thumb to move, pinch, and grip.
Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones begins to wear down. The exact cause of thumb arthritis is unknown, but genetics or previous trauma (including fractures or dislocations) may predispose individuals to the development of this type of arthritis. Without cartilage to act as a cushion, the bones become rough and grind over each other, which can cause further damage to the joint.
Symptoms of Thumb Arthritis
According to Dean G. Sotereanos, MD, orthopaedic surgeon at Orthopedic Specialists – UPMC, pain is the most common symptom of thumb arthritis and typically occurs at the base of the thumb with gripping and pinching activities such as opening a jar or bottle, turning a door handle, twisting a key, or snapping the fingers. Other symptoms may include swelling, stiffness, or tenderness at the base of the thumb.
As symptoms worsen, pain may occur even while the thumb is at rest. The strength and range of motion of the thumb will often decrease as a result. In severe cases, misalignment of the thumb occurs with the presence of a bump over the joint. This may affect the joint above, causing a bent-back appearance (hyperextension).
Thumb Arthritis Diagnosis
A diagnosis is made after a thorough medical history is taken and a physical examination is completed. Specific movements and tests are then performed in an attempt to accurately reproduce the symptoms at the base of the thumb.
X-rays can confirm the diagnosis, typically revealing cartilage loss in the joint. However, for reasons that are not always clear, the severity of pain doesn’t necessarily correlate with cartilage loss shown on x-rays.
Thumb Arthritis Treatment Options
Patients in the early stages of thumb arthritis will usually respond to nonsurgical treatment. Anti-inflammatory medications and splinting may also help alleviate pain. In addition, a corticosteroid injection directly into the joint can often provide pain relief.
For those who find nonsurgical treatment ineffective, as well as for patients with advanced thumb arthritis, surgical treatment is often recommended. These are usually done on an outpatient basis and include joint arthroplasty, joint fusion, and bone realignment. A tendon interposition arthroplasty may be performed with removal of the arthritic bone (trapezium) and reconstruction of the joint with a tendon graft or artificial substance.
Recovery from Thumb Arthritis Surgery
If surgery is necessary, a thumb splint is applied after the procedure and will remain in place for six to eight weeks. A rehabilitation program often involves physical therapy to help regain hand movement, control, and strength. Patients can expect a full recovery typically within three to six months after surgery."
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Arthritis at the base of the thumb is one of the most common sites of osteoarthritis in the hand.Read More
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string(4086) "Do you have shoulder pain that keeps you up at night? Has it gotten difficult to comb your hair or reach up to the top shelf?
Rotator cuff injuries are a common cause of shoulder pain, and new surgical options give you choices for treating even severe injuries. Depending upon your doctor's recommendations, you may opt for traditional shoulder replacement or a newer procedure known as a reverse shoulder replacement.
How the Shoulder Works
Your shoulder joint is made up of three bones:
- The collarbone
- The shoulder bone
- The bone of your upper arm
The head of your upper arm bone fits into a hollow in the shoulder bone — that forms the ball and socket you've probably heard of before. A group of four muscles, along with tendons, surround the joint and keep your arm steady. These muscles are your rotator cuff.
Rotator cuff injury causes
Repetitive arm motion, arthritis, and
certain sports can lead to
rotator cuff injuries. Arthritis compounds the pain and difficulty of a rotator cuff injury.
What Is Shoulder Surgery?
When the pain becomes severe or you lose most of your mobility in your shoulder, your doctor may recommend
shoulder replacement surgery.
You have two shoulder surgery options:
What Is a Reverse Shoulder Replacement?
In
reverse shoulder replacement surgery, the ball is replaced with a socket, and the socket is replaced with a ball. A rounded joint piece, the ball, is attached to the shoulder bone, and a cup-shaped piece, the socket, replaces the top of the arm bone.
Who is a candidate for reverse shoulder replacement surgery?
Your doctor may recommend this surgery if you have severe damage to your rotator cuff or the muscles don't work properly, as with cases of rheumatoid arthritis. In a traditional shoulder replacement, the limited range of your rotator cuff would also affect the movement you can regain after surgery.
With the reverse shoulder replacement, your deltoid muscle, the large muscle group that forms the contour of your shoulder, is used to move your arm. You may be able to regain more overhead reach with this surgery than the traditional.
Reverse shoulder replacements now make up about half of all shoulder replacement surgeries.
As with any major surgery, it will take months to recover along with a
rigorous rehabilitation program.
Physical therapy after surgery will help you lift your arm and regain as much ability to reach overhead as possible.
Do you have a shoulder injury that is causing you chronic pain? Make an appointment to speak with an expert with
UPMC Orthopaedic Care. Find out what options are available to you and how you can live pain-free.
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string(146) "In cases of a severe rotator cuff injury, coupled with arthritis in the shoulder, a reverse shoulder replacement may be the best treatment option."
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Your doctor may recommend this surgery if you have severe damage to your rotator cuff or the muscles don’t work properly, as with cases of rheumatoid arthritis.Read More
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string(4207) "As we age, our bodies change and weaken. This comes from a long-life of wear and tear on joints, bones, and muscles. When individuals get into their 60s, most adults share similar fears about aging.
Many minor health conditions can cause annoyances and difficulty doing daily activities. The good news is with caution and care you can manage health concerns and keep up with the things you love.
Elderly Falls
Falls are one of the primary health concerns for seniors. Hip fractures or head injuries from falls can cause serious health problems, as well as hurt your ability to live without some help.
Falls can happen because of changes in balance, strength, or vision. Medications can also cause dizziness, especially when interacting with other prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, or supplements.
The best way to avoid falls is to exercise regularly to keep up your strength and improve balance. Have your doctor review all medications and supplements you are taking, and be sure your vision is checked regularly. To prevent falls around the house, look for tripping hazards, install grab bars in the bathroom, and make sure all stairs have firm railings.
Elderly Vision Problems
Having regular eye exams is important as you grow older, not only to make sure your glasses are up to date, but also to watch for eye disease.
Glaucoma and macular degeneration are the most common age-related eye disorders that cause trouble seeing. The earlier you catch problems, the better chance you have of retaining your vision.
Remember that problems like diabetes and high blood pressure can affect your vision, so managing chronic conditions is also important to your eyes.
Seniors and Dementia
Dementia is a decline in memory and decision making ability. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia in the elderly. Memory loss is the first sign of dementia, and the condition worsens over time. How quickly it happens is different for everyone, as is the cause.
Seniors and Incontinence
Leaking urine is a common concern or fear among older adults. It's embarrassing and feels unclean when it happens, which makes many people feel self-conscious about reporting it. In many cases, incontinence is often a side effect of other disorders such as strokes, Alzheimer's, or urinary tract infections.
It also happens frequently in women from the pelvic muscles relaxing when sneezing or laughing, causing leaks. The muscles weaken over time from childbirth and aging. Kegel exercises can help strengthen those muscles and reduce incontinence.
Arthritis and Seniors
Osteoarthritis is common in older adults as the cartilage in your joints wears away. Your joints begin to feel stiff and painful, and may even swell.
Exercising, keeping your weight under control, and following a healthy diet are the best ways to manage arthritis. If the pain becomes too much, talk with your doctor about medications and other options.
Proper management of chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease is important to avoiding common health concerns in seniors. Work with your doctor to manage medications, develop an exercise plan, and follow a healthy diet to stay fit and active.
» Watch our Medical Mondays segment on preventing falls among seniors and find additional senior-related articles.
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Osteoarthritis is common in older adults as the cartilage in your joints wears away. Your joints begin to feel stiff and painful, and may even swell.Read More
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string(5365) "This post was last updated on May 29, 2016
According to the Arthritis Foundation, more than 50 million Americans suffer from arthritis — and there are more than 100 different kids of arthritis and musculoskeletal recognized by the medical community.
Arthritis is an often painful condition that causes swelling, inflammation, and stiffness of the joints. Over time, this can lead to changes in mobility and even disability. Plus, with so many forms of arthritis, it's essential to know what kind of you have.
Additional data from the Arthritis Foundation suggests more than 44 million outpatient visits and 992,100 hospitalizations each year can be attributed to arthritis and complications of the disease.
How to Treat Arthritis Pain at Home
While arthritis treatments like pain medication and bracing can be effective in managing pain, there are a number of at-home and natural remedies for relieving discomfort in your joints that are gaining in popularity.
Terence W. Starz, MD, a rheumatologist at UPMC, weighs in on several methods to help you naturally manage your pain.
Treating Arthritis: Move Around
Exercise may seem like the last thing you want to do when your joints are bothering you. However, low-impact physical activity has many benefits for people with pain from arthritis. The benefits of exercise include:
- Strengthening your joint support structures
- Improving flexibility and mobility
- Increasing blood flow to your tissues
Losing healthy amounts of body weight also can help reduce pressure on your joints. Dr. Starz recommends staying healthy with exercise as a great way to manage your weight. As an added benefit, exercise can also help to strengthen your joints and fight the progression of arthritis.
Footwear for Arthritis
It is important to wear a well-fitting and supportive shoe at all times, especially when you have arthritis. Your work shoes,
workout shoes, and weekend shoes should all cushion your feet and permit movement. You may want to avoid high heels because they place strain on your joints, especially the knees.
Diet and Arthritis
A healthy and balanced diet can control weight and build up your body's immunity to the symptoms of arthritis with natural antioxidants. As you plan meals, Dr. Starz suggests that you focus on:
Natural Supplements for Arthritis
If you're worried about diet and getting the right amounts of joint-health substances, supplements can be an option. Dr. Starz adds, "Although they are taken by many people, their role in treating arthritis is still uncertain and is under investigation." He recommends talking to your doctor about adding:
- Calcium
- Fish oil
- Zinc
- Magnesium
- Glucosamine
- Folic Acid
- Vitamins K and C
Maintain Proper Posture
Proper lifting technique can ease more than just your back pain. Lifting puts a great deal of pressure your body's joints and, when done improperly, can cause pain or further injuries. When lifting:
- Keep your feet shoulder with apart
- Position your back behind the object keeping it from curving
- Squat using your abdominal muscles
- Focus your lift from your legs as opposed to your back
- Wear supportive shoes when possible
At work or home, many of us sit for hours a day. One way to break this habit that Dr. Starz recommends is to take breaks if you've been sitting for an hour or more by getting up to walk around. Maintain good posture to prevent pain triggered by the strain placed on your joints due to a seated position. Engage your core, and avoid slouching.
Stress and Arthritis Pain
Stress can trigger or intensify pain. Taking a bath or getting a massage can make all the difference in relieving your pain and rehabilitating your joints and tissues. Heat therapies also can relieve muscle tension and reduce stress levels.
Do you have arthritis or joint pain? If you have questions about natural remedies to manage discomfort, speak with our
rheumatology experts who offer comprehensive services for the full spectrum of musculoskeletal conditions, by calling 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).
"
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While arthritis treatments like pain medication and bracing can be effective in managing pain, there are a number of at-home and natural remedies for relieving discomfort in your joints that are gaining in popularity.Read More
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string(2108) "Crack, pop, click — stretching and cracking your knuckles is a hard habit to break, even though it can be a source of annoyance to those around you.
Perhaps that's why some people have long warned that knuckle cracking can increase the risk of arthritis or other chronic or degenerative conditions. But is there any truth to this claim — or is it just an old wives' tale?
Does Knuckle Cracking Lead to Arthritis?
Fortunately for aficionados of knuckle cracking, there doesn't appear to be a link between the habit and any major health problems. In fact, there seems to be no link between knuckle cracking and increased likelihood of developing osteoarthritis.
While one 1990 study did show that people who crack their knuckles regularly tend to experience swelling of their hands and a weaker grip, there has been no further research to support this finding.
Interestingly, NPR recently published a story highlighting what happens to a knuckle during cracking. As it turns out when you crack your knuckles (under an MRI scan), the cracking, snapping sound comes from the formation of a gas bubble.
Find a UPMC primary care physician by visiting the UPMC Primary Care website or by calling 1-855-676-UPMCPCP.
The idea that cracking your knuckles leads to arthritis is most likely an urban legend starting by family and friends who were tired of listening to the sound.
A Good Feeling: The Truth on Cracking Your Knuckles
There's good reason for why knuckle crackers do what they do. Although some people are easily disturbed by the sound — and feeling — of knuckle cracking, others find it pleasurable.
It's a strange habit, but one that make sense. The act of knuckle cracking can provide those who perform it with a sense of relief from tension and stress, possibly because it stimulates nerve endings as it stretches tendons. So if you're addicted to this harmless habit, crack away — but you might want to do it in private to avoid annoying your friends!
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The idea that cracking your knuckles leads to arthritis is most likely an urban legend starting by family and friends who were tired of listening to the sound.Read More
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string(598) "Pain in your hip from arthritis or other causes can be debilitating and interfere with your quality of life. When non-surgical options fail to provide adequate relief from your pain, an orthopaedic surgeon can replace the damaged joint with an artificial one that is custom-designed to fit your needs, relieve your pain, and get you moving again. At the nationally-ranked UPMC Orthopaedic Care Center, our expert physicians strive to get you back on your feet and back to doing what you love in the shortest time possible."
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Pain in your hip from arthritis or other causes can be debilitating and interfere with your quality of life.Learn More
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string(4246) "People who experience hand pain or weakness know all too well how disabling and frustrating it is to lose hand function and control. Hand injuries can interfere with the ability to earn a living, attend school, care for family, and enjoy hobbies.
“Sometimes hand problems can make simple activities, such as dressing, eating, writing, driving, or turning on a lamp, uncomfortable, awkward, or even impossible,” explained Jackie Loeffler OTR/L, CHT, an occupational therapist with UPMC Centers for Rehab Services.
Whether caused by injury, overuse at work or play, or chronic joint, bone, or nerve conditions, hand disorders do not have to lead to dependence on others or compromise one’s quality of life. There are many types of therapies and treatments that can:
- Increase strength and range of motion
- Improve coordination and sensation
- Reduce or eliminate pain, swelling, and numbness
The type and severity of the hand disorder is what determines the therapies that need to be used. Patients receive individualized treatment, which may include:
- Application of heat, cold, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation
- Biofeedback therapy
- Ergonomic recommendations
- Iontophoresis – delivery of an anti-inflammatory medication through the skin using electromotive force
- Manual therapy
- Splinting
- Strengthening and stretching exercises
For those with osteoarthritis (a type of
arthritis that occurs when flexible tissue at the ends of bones wears down) or rheumatoid arthritis (a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting many joints) of the hands, pain can seem like a constant in their lives.
“Though neither of these afflictions can be cured, hand pain and function can be successfully managed via occupational therapy,” Loeffler said.
Occupational therapists may utilize a number of techniques to achieve the treatment goals of the arthritic patient, including:
- Joint protection techniques through activity modification
- Joint immobilization through splinting
- Exercises and modified activities of daily living techniques
- Education of adaptive equipment options
Occupational therapists also teach patients self-help techniques to
manage their pain. These include thermo modalities for heat and cold, such as hot packs, paraffin wax baths, and ice. The effects are temporary but can be repeated as desired in order to maximize effectiveness and reach a certain level of comfort.
Hand exercises are very effective in increasing comfort and maintaining hand mobility. Occupational therapists can teach patients simple stretches to reduce the effects of arthritis.
“The goal of these exercises is to improve mobility rather than increase strength,” explained Loeffler. “The patient must keep in mind that hand exercises for arthritis should not hurt. If pain is experienced, stop the exercises until it subsides and resume exercising with reduced intensity and speed.
“With proper management and care,
occupational therapy is a very effective way to decrease the impact of injury or disorders of the hand.”
For more information about
hand therapy, visit
UPMC Centers for Rehab Services.
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string(256) "For those with osteoarthritis (a type of arthritis that occurs when flexible tissue at the ends of bones wears down) or rheumatoid arthritis (a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting many joints) of the hands, pain can seem like a constant in their lives."
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For those with osteoarthritis (a type of arthritis that occurs when flexible tissue at the ends of bones wears down) or rheumatoid arthritis (a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting many joints) of the hands, pain can seem like a constant in their lives.Read More
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string(2230) "Treating Ankle Arthritis
Ankle arthritis involves the loss of the normal cartilage in the ankle. Its cause is much different than hip or knee arthritis, known as osteoarthritis, which occurs most frequently with age.
According to foot and ankle surgeon, By Stephen F. Conti, MD, ankle arthritis almost always is a result of some kind of injury. This could include multiple ankle sprains or even a single ankle fracture, particularly if plate and screws were used to fix the fracture.
Non-surgical Treatment Options for Ankle Arthritis
Initial treatments to relieve the pain of ankle arthritis can include weight loss, modified physical activity, the use of over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (such as ibuprofen), steroid injections, and braces.
- Our ankles absorb tremendous body weight force, so weight loss and changes to low impact activities can help ease the pain of ankle arthritis.
- Steroid shots, which can be given up to every three months, are usually effective in the early stages of arthritis. However, they seem to do less well when the cartilage completely deteriorates.
Surgical Treatment Options for Ankle Arthritis
When non-surgical treatments are no longer effective, surgical options for advanced ankle arthritis include ankle fusion and ankle replacement.
In ankle fusion, the joint is removed and the two bones are put together and held with screws. This allows the bones to grow together (or fuse) to become one bone. The advantage of ankle fusion is that it offers excellent pain relief; the disadvantage is that it results in complete stiffness of the ankle.
Total ankle replacement involves removing the ankle joint. An artificial ankle, consisting of two pieces of metal with a piece of plastic between them, is then placed in the joint. This surgery offers patients both pain relief and greater mobility. However, patients may need another operation in 10 to 15 years when the plastic piece wears out.
The decision to have ankle fusion or ankle replacement surgery is a complicated one, based on your pain, medical health, and activity level. It is best discussed in person with your orthopaedic surgeon."
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Ankle arthritis involves the loss of the normal cartilage in the ankle.Read More
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string(3045) "There are three different types of arthritis that can affect the knee, with the most common being osteoarthritis or arthritis from wear and tear. In fact, more than 27 million people in the United States have some form of osteoarthritis. Learn how UPMC Orthopaedic Care experts treat each patient with a comprehensive, individualized approach to knee arthritis.
Symptoms of Knee Arthritis
Signs and symptoms vary for each patient but often include:
- Pain and swelling that increases when active
- A feeling of warmth in the joint
- Stiffness in the knee, especially in the morning or after a long period of sitting
- A decrease in mobility
- A cracking sound when moving the knee
Knee Arthritis Diagnosis
When a patient comes to us with knee pain, our first step is to conduct a thorough evaluation. We believe in evaluating the whole body, not just the knee, which helps to identify any other medical conditions that could impact treatment. It also helps us understand the patients’ goals and activity level, important considerations when developing a treatment plan. The physical exam allows us to identify any abnormalities, swelling or fluid in the joints, range of motion, and muscle strength. Diagnostic tests are also often part of the evaluation and can include x-ray, MRI, CT scan, or ultrasound.
Treatment of Knee Arthritis
According to Alan H. Klein, MD, of Orthopedic Specialists – UPMC, osteoarthritis of the knee is often first treated with a non-operative treatment plan. This could include home exercises, structured physical therapy, bracing, walking aids, injection therapy with cortisone, over-the-counter or perception medication, or weight loss. The patient must understand that there is no cure for arthritis. Rather, we will find ways to help the patient manage symptoms through activity modification or recommendations on proper footwear.
If the patient does not respond to non-operative treatment, or other conservative methods have failed to address the symptoms and alleviate pain, surgical treatment is likely the next step. This may include minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques, which are somewhat limited in efficacy for arthritis. Other surgical options include an osteotomy, which is a procedure to realign the limb. Some patients will be a candidate for partial knee replacement. However, this is usually reserved for patients with severe knee arthritis when other treatments have failed.
Knee Arthritis Recovery and Prognosis
Postoperative physical and occupational therapy will help the patient regain range of motion and restore their independence. The social services team works to ensure a seamless transition from hospital to home, including arrangements for home health care if necessary. This could include a nurse, physical therapist, and home health equipment. Other patients may require inpatient rehabilitation or a stay in a skilled nursing facility following joint replacement."
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There are three different types of arthritis that can affect the knee, with the most common being osteoarthritis or arthritis from wear and tear.Read More
