Work With One of Our Experienced Wichita Orthopedic Doctors Near You to Overcome Joint Pain and Mobility Issues
Receiving a diagnosis of arthritis is a life-altering moment, bringing with it a mix of emotions, questions, and uncertainties. Statistically, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common forms of this condition. Patients may experience a range of symptoms, including pain, inflammation, swelling, grinding sensations, and joint stiffness.
Although arthritis presents unique challenges, it’s important to recognize that with the right approach, support system, and guidance from one of our experienced orthopedic doctors, you can still lead a fulfilling and active life.
Keep reading to learn best practices to employ starting now when dealing with arthritis and how toarrange an appointment with an orthopedic doctor near you at Mid-America Orthopedics so that you can receive professional treatment.
Educate Yourself About Your Condition
According to the Arthritis Foundation, there are more than 100 types of arthritis. Understanding the type of arthritis you have, its progression, and potential treatments is fundamental.
Take the time to read information from reputable sources and consult with our orthopedic doctors and physicians who specialize in the type of arthritis that you have. Knowledge is a powerful tool for making informed decisions about your health, including dietary choices, how much physical activity to get, and which medications your physician at Mid-America Orthopedics might recommend.
Build a Support Network
Arthritis is physically and emotionally challenging, which is why building a strong support network is essential for your mental health. Share your diagnosis with close friends and family so that they understand your situation.
You can also consider joining a support group or online community where you can connect with others facing similar experiences. Emotional support plays a significant role in effectively managing arthritis symptoms.
Collaborate with an Orthopedic Doctor Near You in Wichita
Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic doctors to help slow symptom development and disease progression in the case of rheumatoid arthritis. Our physicians can recommend medications and interventions to improve your quality of life.
Work together to develop a personalized treatment plan that may include medications, physical exercises, pain management techniques, and behavioral changes. Regular check-ins with your Wichita healthcare team are essential for monitoring progress and adapting the treatment plan as needed.
Embrace Physical Activity
Although there are misconceptions surrounding the topic of arthritis and physical activity, some patients benefit from getting regular exercise. Exercise can help ease joint pain and stiffness, enabling you to be less reliant on pain management medications and other forms of treatment.
Engaging in low-impact activities such as swimming, walking, or cycling can help maintain joint flexibility and strength. Aquatic fitness is an excellent choice because it places virtually no pressure on your joints, which is why it’s ideal for those who are suffering with arthritis in lower limbs.
Your doctor may also recommend a consultation with a physical therapist to create a tailored exercise routine that suits your abilities and goals.
Mid-America Orthopedics has a team of the best orthopedic doctors and physical therapists under one roof, ensuring that everyone is on the same page when developing your treatment plan.
Prioritize Joint-Friendly Nutrition
Adopting a balanced and anti-inflammatory diet can support arthritis management. Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties, such as fish, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Consider consulting with a registered dietitian for personalized dietary guidance.
Explore Orthopedic Treatments
Holistic and over-the-counter methods can help reduce joint pain, stiffness, and lack of mobility; however, in severe cases of arthritis, some patients require more aggressive forms of treatment.
When consulting with your orthopedic doctor in our practice, you may hear suggestions for:
- Corticosteroid medications.
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).
- Biologic response modifiers.
- Hyaluronic acid injections.
- Braces, assistive devices, or custom orthotics.
- Heating pads and ice packs.
Consider Orthopedic Surgery
Some cases of arthritis are so severe that they require surgical intervention to provide permanent relief.
Depending on the type of arthritis that you have, your orthopedic surgeon may recommend:
- Bone realignment.
- Partial or full joint replacement surgery.
- Synovectomy.
- Tendon repair.
- Joint fusion.
The surgeons at Mid-America Orthopedics can perform minimally invasive surgery using arthroscopy or traditional open surgery. For the sake of your recovery, it’s our policy to use open surgery as a last resort.
Schedule a Consultation with a Wichita Orthopedic Doctor Near You Today
A diagnosis of arthritis doesn’t mean forfeiting your quality of life. By taking proactive steps, building a strong support network, and collaborating with the best orthopedic doctors in Wichita, you can effectively manage your arthritis symptoms and maintain your sense of empowerment.
Remember, each person’s journey with arthritis is unique, and finding the right combination of treatment strategies requires patience and a solutions-oriented approach. Take the first step toward relieving your joint pain by scheduling an appointment at Mid-America Orthopedics.
During your first appointment, your orthopedic doctor will perform an examination, take your medical history, and develop a treatment plan specifically tailored to you. Call us at (316) 630-9300 to schedule an appointment or send us an email using the contact form on our website.