How To Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis

Chronic pain can greatly affect your life, especially if left untreated or unmanaged. However, rheumatoid arthritis is manageable with rheumatoid arthritishelp from your Haddon Heights, NJ doctor. With 30 years experience, Dr. Mark Fisher and his team will help you overcome your arthritis pain and reduce its symptoms.

What is rheumatoid arthritis? 
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the joints. It can happen at any age though it is more common between the ages of 40 and 60 and is more common in women. In its early stages, it can affect smaller joints in the fingers and toes, and as it progresses it can affect the larger joints such as knees, wrists, elbows and hips.

Do I have rheumatoid arthritis? 
Some of the most common symptoms include:

  • joint pain
  • joint swelling
  • joint tenderness
  • joint stiffness
  • decreased range of motion
  • fatigue
  • deformity of the joint
  • problems in more than one joint

Arthritis Treatments in Haddon Heights, NJ 
Dr. Fisher may recommend certain prescription medications to help with pain and inflammation. Oral or topical NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are a common choice. Corticosteroid injections applied directly to the joint in question can provide immediate results, helping you get back on your feet fast. However, injectables are not permanent and require ongoing treatments to retain their results. Another medication that may be considered is disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). In some severe cases, your doctor may recommend surgery. Dr. Fisher can help you determine which treatments are best for you and your condition.

Dealing with Arthritis Daily 
Managing your rheumatoid arthritis pain at home is also an important part of your treatment plan. Exercise can play a role in arthritis treatment and helps to strengthen the muscles around the affected joints, building their mobility and functionality and reducing joint pain.

For more information on diagnosing, managing, and treating arthritis, please contact Dr. Fisher in Camden County, NJ. Call (856) 547-8004 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Fisher today!