Is Arthritis a Disability?

Arthritis is more than just pain – it is the leading cause of work disability in the United States. The condition and its many forms cause debilitating symptoms that can result in numerous physical disabilities if left untreated. 

It is important to receive the proper care you need to treat your joint pain and restore the quality of life you deserve. At Arthritis and Osteoporosis Treatment center, our experienced rheumatologists will develop a personalized plan of care to relieve and treat your pain as quickly as possible.  

Why is Arthritis a Physical Disability?

Arthritis can cause pain and immobility in many areas of the body, including the hands, knuckles, spine, hips, shoulders and knees. It can also cause increased fatigue and weakness, making daily life difficult.

No matter the type or form of arthritis you have, the severity of your symptoms can cause disability in many aspects of your life. Patients may begin to experience physical disabilities that prevent them from activities like using stairs, lifting objects and more. This can hinder one’s ability to work or carry out daily responsibilities.

Arthritis Symptoms That May Cause Disability 

There are many different types of arthritis that can qualify for disability based on symptoms and severity. The most common forms of the condition include rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and osteoarthritis. 

Rheumatoid Arthritis 

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a type of arthritis that typically affects the hands, wrists, shoulders and knees. While there is no known cause of rheumatoid arthritis, this autoimmune disorder occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue and cells within your body. 

The chronic condition harms the lining of your joints and causes bone erosion as a result of constant swelling and inflammation. Other symptoms include fatigue, weakness and joint stiffness that worsens as the condition progresses

Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a form of inflammatory arthritis that may occur in up to 30 percent of patients with psoriasis, although it is less prevalent than rheumatoid arthritis in the general population. This type of arthritis may affect the peripheral joints, axial skeleton or both – patterns often overlap. Symptoms include pain and stiffness, joint swelling, swollen fingers or “sausage digits” (dactylitis), fatigue, and inflammation around the tendons and ligaments.

Osteoarthritis 

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and affects the hips, knees, feet and spine. This form of arthritis typically affects older adults, usually in relation to “wear and tear” on the body and joints that has occurred over time. 

The condition causes the cartilage between your bones to gradually wear out, resulting in painful friction and damage to your bones. Osteoarthritis can result in joint stiffness, severe pain and swelling, and loss of mobility as it progresses. 

The Importance of Treatment

It is crucial to seek a personalized treatment plan as soon as symptoms begin. The proper treatments can not only relieve symptoms, they will get to the root cause of your arthritis to stop progression. This allows you to regain mobility, come off disability for arthritis or prevent the symptoms that may require it. This way, you won’t have to sacrifice the daily activities you love.

Here are some of the most effective treatments for arthritis pain.

IV Infusion Therapy 

IV infusion therapy for joint pain can relieve inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis and provide patients with relief from other symptoms of the condition. The active drug Rituximab is infused into the body through an IV treatment for arthritis. It is typically performed once every 15 days.

Arthritis Medications

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are also a highly effective form of treatment. DMARDs help put patients into remission and slow the advancement of arthritis. They are also known to decrease inflammation and minimize painful symptoms, as well as prevent joint damage.

Diet and Lifestyle

Aside from medications and infusion for arthritis, other common treatment methods include diet modifications or increased exercise to improve mobility. Anti-inflammatory foods such as fish, whole grains or fruit are great ways to minimize and manage painful arthritis symptoms. 

Schedule an Appointment at our Jacksonville / Orange Park Office

Arthritis doesn’t have to take control of your life. If you are experiencing symptoms of arthritis or joint pain, a personalized treatment plan is a step away at AOTC. Our rheumatologists invest in your care and ensure you receive the treatment you need to find relief and get back to doing what you love, pain-free. Schedule an appointment today.