Arthritis: Treatment is Available

Arthritis is inflammation in the joints which causes pain and stiffness and can impact range of motion and diminish the ability to do everyday tasks.

The Arthritis Foundation estimates that 1 in 4, or about 60 million adults, have a type of arthritis in the United States, while approximately 300,000 children have been diagnosed with juvenile arthritis. However, treatments are available.

Arthritis comes in multiple types from wear and tear on the joints to autoimmune disorders. Symptoms can include joint pain, stiffness or reduced range of motion, swelling and inflammation, skin discoloration, tenderness when touched and a sensation of heat near the affected joints.

Russ Johnson, director of therapy at Knoxville Orthopaedic Clinic, encourages anyone who may be experiencing a type of arthritis to seek professional care.

“We help manage and treat a lot of patients with arthritis at KOC and can attest to how important it is to employ strategies both to prevent inflammation and to reduce symptoms, through intentional movement, therapy, medications and procedures, if necessary,” Johnson said.

One treatment is basal joint surgery, which treats arthritis at the base of your thumb.

The hand and wrist experts at Knoxville Orthopaedic Clinic offer basal joint surgery and many other treatments to help restore comfort and mobility to get back to the life you love.

If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort with everyday tasks, see the expert team at KOC by calling (865) 558-4444 for an appointment or schedule online.