Arthritis care offered in Boulder, CO

Up to 24 million American adults have some form of arthritis, a group of diseases that cause joint inflammation, stiffness, and mobility problems. At Breakthrough Regenerative Orthopedics in Boulder, Colorado, sports medicine specialists offer minimally invasive, nonsurgical treatments for arthritis. Treatments include prolotherapy, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, and physical therapy. Call Breakthrough Regenerative Orthopedics today to schedule arthritis treatment, or book your appointment online.

Are there different types of arthritis?

Yes. There are over 100 different kinds of arthritis, but all cause joint pain. Two of the most common types of arthritis are:

Osteoarthritis

This type of arthritis occurs because of general wear-and-tear. It causes cartilage –– a rubbery substance that pads the joints –– to break down, allowing your bones to rub against each other, causing inflammation and pain.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that damages the lining of your joints (synovium). It causes swelling, tenderness, and fatigue.

What are the symptoms of arthritis?

Arthritis symptoms include:

• Joint pain
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Redness
• Warmth

As the disease gets worse, you can experience mobility problems (like difficulty walking) and less range of motion.

Who gets arthritis?

Anyone can develop arthritis, but several things increase your risk, including being overweight, having suffered previous joint injuries, and genetics. For example, if your parents or siblings have rheumatoid arthritis, you’re more likely to develop it.

Should I see a sports medicine specialist about arthritis?

Yes. Make an appointment at Breakthrough Regenerative Orthopedics if you play sports or lead an active lifestyle and have joint pain. That’s particularly true if your symptoms last longer than a few days and don’t improve with at-home treatments like rest, ice, compression, and elevation (the RICE protocol).

Arthritis gets worse over time. Intervention and treatment can preserve mobility and help you return to your favorite activities.

How does a sports medicine specialist diagnose arthritis?

Your Breakthrough Regenerative Orthopedics provider reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and completes a physical exam. They look at your affected joints for redness and swelling and assess your flexibility and range of motion. They order X-rays or an MRI to examine your bones, joints, and surrounding tissues for damage.

How does a sports medicine specialist treat arthritis?

The Breakthrough Regenerative Orthopedics providers treat arthritis using a minimally invasive and nonsurgical approach. They might suggest:

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol®)
• Topical counterirritants (like capsaicin or menthol lotions)
• Corticosteroid injections
• Prolotherapy
• Physical therapy
• Activity changes
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
• Exercises to strengthen and support your joints
• Heat and cold therapy
• Massage
• Nutritional supplements to reduce inflammation and swelling

If you have rheumatoid arthritis, your provider might prescribe disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). These drugs slow the progress of rheumatoid arthritis and protect your joints from permanent damage.

Call Breakthrough Regenerative Orthopedics today to schedule treatment for arthritis, or book your visit online.