Different Types of Arthritis
Dr. Pope describes the different types of arthritis. And explains how KRMC can help with your type of arthritis.
Arthritis isn’t just one condition. It’s a broad term used to describe joint inflammation, pain, stiffness, and other symptoms associated with many different conditions. Understanding the type of arthritis affecting your joints is an important first step in determining which treatment options may be appropriate for you.
At Kansas Regenerative Medicine Center (KRMC), we work with individuals experiencing joint pain and orthopedic concerns who want to explore innovative treatment options. Dr. Pope and our team take the time to evaluate each patient individually and discuss whether regenerative medicine may be appropriate for their situation.
What Are the Most Common Types of Arthritis?
While there are many forms of arthritis, several types are especially common.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common forms of arthritis, particularly among older adults. It occurs as the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones within a joint gradually changes and deteriorates.
Common symptoms may include:
- Joint pain during or after activity
- Stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity
- Reduced range of motion
- Tenderness around the joint
- Swelling or inflammation
- Grinding, clicking, or popping sensations
Osteoarthritis frequently affects weight-bearing or heavily used joints such as the knees, hips, shoulders, and hands.
For many people, the discomfort can make everyday activities—walking, climbing stairs, exercising, golfing, gardening, or simply getting up from a chair—more difficult.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is different from osteoarthritis. It is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks tissues within the joints.
Symptoms can include pain, swelling, stiffness, warmth around the joints, and fatigue. Rheumatoid arthritis often affects multiple joints and requires appropriate medical evaluation and ongoing management.
Because autoimmune forms of arthritis are different from degenerative joint conditions, treatment options can also be very different. An accurate diagnosis matters.
Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is another inflammatory form of arthritis. It can occur in some people who have psoriasis and may cause joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and changes in the fingers or toes.
Symptoms can vary considerably from person to person. Anyone experiencing symptoms that could indicate an inflammatory or autoimmune condition should work with an appropriate healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis
Not all arthritis develops simply because of age.
A previous injury to a joint—such as a sports injury, fracture, ligament injury, or other trauma—can sometimes contribute to cartilage deterioration and arthritis later in life.
For example, someone who injured a knee years ago may eventually experience increasing pain, stiffness, or difficulty remaining active.
Why Knowing Your Type of Arthritis Matters
Two people can both say, “I have arthritis,” while actually dealing with very different conditions.
That distinction matters.
The cause of your symptoms, the condition of the joint, your medical history, your activity level, and your goals can all influence which treatment approaches may be appropriate.
That’s why KRMC focuses on evaluating the individual rather than treating every case of joint pain the same way.
Exploring Regenerative Medicine for Joint Pain
For appropriate patients with orthopedic and degenerative joint concerns, regenerative medicine may provide another option to consider.
At Kansas Regenerative Medicine Center, our stem cell procedures use your own adult stem cells derived from your fat tissue. These are known as autologous cells because they come from your own body.
The goal is not to promise a cure or guarantee that a damaged joint can be completely restored. Instead, regenerative medicine is an innovative approach that may help certain patients improve their symptoms and function.
Every patient and every joint is different, which is why an individual evaluation is essential.
Could You Be a Candidate?
If arthritis or chronic joint pain is keeping you from doing the things you enjoy, it may be worth learning about the options available to you.
You may want to explore regenerative medicine if you are dealing with ongoing orthopedic joint discomfort and are interested in learning about alternatives to more conventional approaches.
A consultation with the KRMC team can help determine whether your condition may be appropriate for the treatments we provide.
Don’t Let Joint Pain Make the Decision for You
Maybe you want to walk farther without thinking about your knee.
Maybe you’d like to get back on the golf course, work in the yard, travel, exercise, or simply keep up with your family.
Whatever your goal, understanding what is happening inside your joint is an important place to begin.
Learn whether regenerative medicine may be an option for you.
Contact Kansas Regenerative Medicine Center to schedule a consultation at our Manhattan, Kansas, or Kansas City, Kansas location.
