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Arthritis Specialist

Maniya Health

Primary Care Practice & Internists located in Hamilton and Robbinsville, NJ

Are soreness and swelling holding you back from doing the activities you love? Perhaps it’s time to take charge of your health and put the aches and pains of arthritis behind you. Our team at Maniya Health can diagnose and treat arthritis to enhance your quality of life. Call the offices in Hamilton and Robbinsville, New Jersey, today or schedule a consultation online.

Arthritis Q&A

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a common condition brought on by joint inflammation. Your joint surfaces are lined with cartilage, a smooth material that cushions your bones and reduces friction. Over time, wear and tear on the cartilage causes inflammation — and arthritis.

Arthritis can affect almost any joint, including those in your:

  • Knees
  • Hands
  • Fingers
  • Elbows
  • Back
  • Shoulders

One of the most common locations of arthritis is the carpometacarpal joint in your hand. This joint is located on the thumb side of the base of your palm. If you have arthritis here, it may be painful to open jars or perform activities requiring a strong grip.

Half of adults over age 65 have arthritis, which often causes ongoing pain and can impair your quality of life without the right care.

How is arthritis diagnosed?

Your provider takes a thorough medical history and performs a physical exam, testing to see how well you move your joints. They also look for signs of redness, swelling, and warmth in your joints.

Depending on the nature of your condition, you may need lab tests or imaging tests. Your primary care specialist may recommend:

  • An ultrasound
  • X-rays
  • Computerized tomography (CT) scan
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Your provider may want to analyze a sample of your joint fluid. The sample is typically taken by numbing the area around your joint and inserting a thin needle to withdraw a small amount of fluid.

How is arthritis treated?

The team at Maniya Health tailors your treatment to your form of arthritis. Your specialist may recommend:

  • A splint: To rest your joint and relieve inflammation
  • Analgesics: Prescription medications to ease pain
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs: Creams and oral medications that target pain and inflammation
  • Corticosteroids: Medications, such as prednisone and cortisone, that are injected or taken as a pill to reduce inflammation
  • Antirheumatic drugs: Used with rheumatoid arthritis to slow down or block your immune system from attacking your joints

Physical therapy may also provide you with relief by strengthening the muscles supporting your joints. 

If you’re ready to put the symptoms of arthritis behind you, call Maniya Health or request an appointment online today.