Arthritis Specialists
Midwest Center for Joint Replacement
Hip and Knee Replacement Surgeons located in Indianapolis, IN & Bloomington, IN
Arthritis accounts for more cases of chronic joint pain than any other cause, bringing misery and disability to millions of people across the United States. If you have arthritis, the highly skilled team of orthopedic surgeons at Midwest Center for Joint Replacement can help. At our offices in Indianapolis and Bloomington, Indiana, we deliver expert treatments for arthritis through surgical and nonsurgical options. Call us today to find out more.
Arthritis Q & A
What is arthritis?
Arthritis takes more than 100 forms, some common and some unlikely. All types of arthritis cause painful joint inflammation, but while certain forms affect multiple joints, others develop in just one joint.
The types of arthritis that occur most commonly include:
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Osteoarthritis
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Rheumatoid arthritis
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Post-traumatic arthritis
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Psoriatic arthritis
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Septic arthritis
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Gout
Of these, osteoarthritis is the most common.
How does arthritis develop?
The different forms of arthritis have varying causes. Rheumatoid arthritis develops because of an autoimmune disorder that destroys the joint linings. Gout sets in when there's a buildup of uric acid crystals in a joint — most often the big toe.
Osteoarthritis (OA) develops when the protective covering at the end of your bones (cartilage) starts to wear down. This results in the bones brushing against one another, creating significant pain in the affected joints.
Your likelihood of developing osteoarthritis increases because of normal wear-and-tear as you age. Other risk factors include:
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Weight gain
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Past injuries
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Genetics
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Overuse
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Lifelong inactivity