Arthritis Pain

Defining Arthritis Pain

Arthritis is a painful condition characterised by inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. 

There are over one hundred different types of arthritis, with the most common being osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

While osteoarthritis typically results from wear and tear of the joints over time, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the joints. 

Treatment for arthritis often involves a combination of medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Where Does Arthritis Pain Occur?

Arthritis pain can occur in various parts of the body, primarily affecting the joints. 

Common areas include the knees, hips, hands, wrists, shoulders, and spine.

The pain experienced from arthritis can vary depending on the type of arthritis and its severity, ranging from mild discomfort to debilitating pain that significantly impacts mobility and quality of life. 

Additionally, some forms of arthritis can also affect other parts of the body, such as organs or skin, resulting in a broader range of symptoms beyond large and small joint pain.

Chronic Large Joint Pain from Arthritis (Knees, Elbows, Shoulders, and Hips)

Chronic large joint pain from arthritis typically manifests as persistent discomfort, stiffness, and swelling in one or more of the major joints such as the knees, hips, shoulders, or elbows. 

This type of pain tends to worsen over time and can significantly limit mobility and physical function.

If you suffer from arthritis, you may experience difficulty with activities that involve weight-bearing or movement of the affected joint, such as walking, climbing stairs, or lifting objects.

The pain is often described as dull, aching, or throbbing, and it may be accompanied by a sensation of stiffness or tightness in the joint, particularly after periods of rest or inactivity.

Joint swelling, inflammation, and warmth to the touch are common features of arthritis-related joint pain, reflecting underlying inflammation in the joint tissues.

Chronic large joint pain from arthritis often has a profound impact on your daily life, making it challenging to perform routine tasks, engage in physical activities, or participate in recreational or social activities.

Over time, untreated arthritis pain can lead to joint deformity, muscle weakness, and decreased range of motion, further exacerbating functional limitations.

Managing chronic large joint pain from arthritis typically involves a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle modifications, and supportive therapies tailored to the individual’s specific needs and goals. 

This may include medications to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, physical therapy to improve joint flexibility and strength, assistive devices to support joint function, and lifestyle changes such as weight management and joint protection strategies.

Overall, chronic large joint pain from arthritis requires ongoing management and support to optimise pain relief, preserve joint function, and improve your everyday life.

Chronic Small Joint Pain from Arthritis (Fingers, Wrists, Toes, and Ankles)

Small joint pain differs from large joint pain primarily in the size and location of the affected joints. 

Small joints are typically those found in the fingers, toes, wrists, and ankles.

Here are some key differences between small joint pain and the chronic large joint pain typically associated with arthritis:

1. Location. Small joint pain predominantly affects the smaller joints of the body, such as those in the fingers, toes, wrists, and ankles. In contrast, chronic large joint pain primarily involves larger joints like the knees, hips, shoulders, and elbows.
2. Symptoms: While both types of joint pain may involve similar symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and swelling, the severity and impact can vary depending on the size and location of the affected joints. Small joint pain may be more localised and may not cause as much functional impairment as chronic large joint pain, especially in terms of weight-bearing or mobility.
3. Underlying Causes. Small joint pain can be caused by various factors, including arthritis (such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis), injury, overuse, or inflammation of the joint lining (synovitis). Chronic large joint pain is more commonly associated with conditions like osteoarthritis, although it can also result from other forms of arthritis or joint-related disorders.
4. Treatment Approaches. Treatment for small joint pain often involves similar strategies to those used for large joint pain, including medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. However, some treatments may be more targeted or specific to the affected joints in small joint pain. For example, splints or orthotic devices may be used to support and stabilise small joints, and intra-articular injections may be administered directly into the affected joints for pain relief and inflammation reduction.
5. Impact on Function. While both types of joint pain can impact physical function and quality of life, the effects may differ based on the location and severity of the pain. Small joint pain may affect fine motor skills and dexterity, potentially interfering with tasks such as writing, typing, or grasping small objects. Chronic large joint pain, on the other hand, may have a more pronounced impact on activities involving weight-bearing, such as walking, standing, or climbing stairs.

In summary, while small joint pain from arthritis shares some similarities with chronic large joint pain, there are distinct differences in terms of location, symptoms, underlying causes, treatment approaches, and functional impact. 

Understanding these differences is important for accurate diagnosis and effective management of joint pain based on your individual needs and circumstances.

What Causes Arthritis and Arthritis Pain?

Arthritis can be caused by a variety of factors, depending on the type of arthritis:

• Osteoarthritis. This is often caused by the gradual wearing down of cartilage, the tissue that cushions the ends of bones in the joints. It can result from ageing, joint injury, obesity, or repetitive stress on the joints.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis. This is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium, the lining of the membranes that surround the joints. The exact cause is unknown, but genetics, environmental factors, and hormonal changes may play a role.
• Infectious Arthritis. Caused by an infection in the joint, usually by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. These infections can enter the joint through the bloodstream or from nearby tissues.
• Other Causes. Other types of arthritis can be caused by metabolic disorders, such as gout or pseudogout, or by underlying inflammatory conditions like lupus or ankylosing spondylitis.

Overall, the specific cause(s) of arthritis can vary widely depending on the type and individual circumstances, but it often involves a combination of genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and immune system dysfunction.

What is an Arthritis Pain Specialist?

A pain specialist who treats arthritis patients (often in conjunction with rheumatologists), is a medical doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating the chronic pain caused by arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. 

These specialists have advanced training in the musculoskeletal system and autoimmune disorders, which allows them to accurately diagnose different types of arthritis and develop comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs. 

They may utilise a variety of approaches, including medication management, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and in some cases, surgical interventions to alleviate pain, improve joint function, and enhance overall quality of life for individuals with arthritis.

Multidisciplinary Teams for Arthritis Pain Management

A multidisciplinary team to treat arthritis pain typically includes a range of healthcare professionals who collaborate to provide comprehensive care tailored to the needs of each individual patient.

Some key members and what they do to help alleviate arthritis pain are:

• Rheumatologists. A medical doctor specialising in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and other rheumatological illnesses. These may include specific medications including immune suppressive agents, disease modifying agents (DMARDs) and biologic agents.
• Orthopaedic Surgeons. For cases where surgical intervention, such as joint replacement, may be necessary.
• Physical Therapists. To develop exercise programs and provide hands-on therapy to improve joint mobility, strength, and function.
• Occupational Therapists. To assist with adapting daily activities and environments to reduce joint strain and improve overall quality of life.
• Pain Management Specialists. To help manage chronic pain associated with arthritis through various interventions, such as medications, injections, or nerve blocks.
• Nutritionists or Dietitians. To provide guidance on dietary strategies that may help manage inflammation and maintain a healthy weight, which can reduce stress on the joints.
• Psychologists or Counsellors. To offer support and coping strategies for dealing with the emotional and psychological aspects of living with chronic pain and managing the impact of arthritis on daily life.
• Social Support or Social Workers. To assist with navigating healthcare systems, accessing resources, and addressing social and financial concerns that may arise due to arthritis.

By bringing together expertise from multiple disciplines in a collaborative manner, Dr Mittal can provide holistic care that addresses the various physical, emotional, and practical aspects of arthritis management.

How Does a Pain Specialist Treat Arthritis Pain?

A pain specialist like Dr Mittal, a physician with specialised training in pain management, approaches treating arthritis pain through a variety of methods tailored to the individual needs of each patient.

Here are some common approaches that might be used:

• Medications. Pain specialists may consider medications to manage arthritis pain, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids and prescription medications. These medications can help reduce inflammation and/ or alleviate pain.
• Interventional Procedures. Pain specialists may perform interventional procedures to directly target and alleviate pain in specific joints or areas affected by arthritis. Examples include corticosteroid injections, nerve blocks and radiofrequency ablation.
• Physical Therapy. Pain specialists may refer patients to physical therapists who can design exercise programs and provide hands-on therapy to improve joint mobility, strength, and function. Physical therapy can also help alleviate pain by teaching patients techniques for proper body mechanics and joint protection.
• Neuromodulation. In some refractory cases of chronic pain due to arthritis, pain specialists may consider peripheral field, peripheral nerve or spinal cord stimulation to manage pain more effectively.
• Lifestyle Modifications. Pain specialists may recommend lifestyle modifications to help manage arthritis pain, such as maintaining a healthy weight, adopting joint-friendly exercise routines, using assistive devices or adaptive equipment, and modifying activities to reduce joint stress.
• Psychological Support. Pain specialists may collaborate with psychologists or counsellors to provide support and coping strategies for managing the emotional and psychological aspects of living with chronic pain. Techniques such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can help patients develop skills to cope with pain, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being.
• Complementary and Alternative Therapies. Pain specialists may integrate complementary and alternative therapies into treatment plans, such as acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic care, and mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques. While evidence supporting the effectiveness of these therapies for arthritis pain varies, some patients may find them beneficial as part of a holistic approach to pain management.

Overall, arthritis pain doctors like Dr Mittal take a comprehensive approach to treating arthritis pain, focusing on addressing both the physical symptoms and the broader impact of pain on their patients’ lives.

By integrating these various components into a personalised treatment plan, Dr Mittal can help you effectively manage arthritis pain, improve joint function, and enhance your life whilst dealing with this chronic condition.

What Does a Treatment Plan for Arthritis Involve?

A treatment plan for chronic arthritis pain typically involves a comprehensive approach that addresses various aspects of the condition, tailored to your individual needs, preferences, and health concerns.

Here are key components often included in such a plan:

• Medical Evaluation. The first step is a thorough medical evaluation by a healthcare provider, usually a rheumatologist or a general practitioner, to diagnose the type and severity of arthritis and assess its impact on the patient’s overall health. 
• Medication Management. Depending on the type of arthritis and the severity of symptoms, the healthcare provider may prescribe medications to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and slow the progression of the disease. Common medications include NSAIDs, analgesics, corticosteroids, DMARDs, and biologic agents.
• Physical Therapy. A physical therapist may design an exercise program tailored to the patient’s specific needs and abilities. These exercises can help improve joint mobility, strengthen muscles surrounding the affected joints, and enhance overall function. Physical therapists may also provide manual therapy techniques and education on proper body mechanics and joint protection.
• Lifestyle Modifications. Lifestyle modifications can play a crucial role in managing arthritis pain. This may include maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on the joints, adopting joint-friendly exercise routines, using assistive devices or adaptive equipment to support daily activities, and modifying activities to minimise joint strain.
• Interventional Procedures. In some cases, interventional procedures may be recommended to directly target and alleviate pain in specific joints or areas affected by arthritis. These procedures may include corticosteroid injections, hyaluronic acid injections (viscosupplementation), nerve blocks, radiofrequency ablation, and joint aspiration.
• Psychological Support. Living with chronic pain can have a significant impact on mental and emotional well-being. Psychologists or counsellors may provide support and coping strategies to help patients manage the emotional and psychological aspects of living with arthritis pain. Techniques such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can be particularly helpful in improving mood and enhancing overall quality of life.
• Complementary and Alternative Therapies. Some patients may find relief from arthritis pain through complementary and alternative therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic care, and mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques. While evidence supporting the effectiveness of these therapies varies, they may complement conventional treatments and provide additional relief for some individuals.
• Regular Follow-up and Monitoring. Throughout the treatment process, regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers are essential to monitor progress, adjust treatment plans as needed, and address any concerns or changes in symptoms. Open communication between patients and healthcare providers is crucial for optimising arthritis pain management and improving overall outcomes.

The Challenges of Living with Arthritis Pain 

Living with arthritis pain presents a range of challenges that can significantly impact daily life and overall well-being:

• Chronic Pain. Arthritis pain is often chronic, meaning it persists over time and can vary in intensity, making it difficult to predict or manage. This constant discomfort can lead to physical and emotional exhaustion, affecting sleep, mood, and overall quality of life.
• Limited Mobility and Function. Arthritis pain can restrict joint mobility and impair physical function, making it challenging to perform everyday tasks such as walking, climbing stairs, or grasping objects. Reduced mobility can lead to decreased independence and reliance on assistive devices or support from others. It can result in significant weight gain which in turn has a negative impact on the chronic pain itself but also on mental well being and quality of life.
• Fatigue. Chronic pain and inflammation associated with arthritis can cause fatigue, even after minimal physical activity. Fatigue can further limit productivity and participation in social or recreational activities, contributing to feelings of frustration and isolation.
• Emotional Impact. Living with ongoing pain and physical limitations can take a toll on mental health, leading to feelings of depression, anxiety, stress, and decreased self-esteem. Coping with the emotional aspects of arthritis pain, along with managing the physical symptoms, can be overwhelming and emotionally draining.
• Social and Relationship Challenges. Arthritis pain may interfere with social interactions, hobbies, and relationships. Participating in social activities or maintaining close relationships may become more challenging due to pain, fatigue, or mobility limitations. This can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, impacting overall social well-being.
• Financial Burden. The costs associated with managing arthritis pain, including medical treatments, medications, assistive devices, and therapy sessions, can create financial strain for individuals and their families. Additionally, arthritis-related disability may lead to reduced work productivity or job loss, further exacerbating financial difficulties.
• Treatment Side Effects. Some medications and treatments used to manage arthritis pain may have side effects, such as gastrointestinal issues, increased risk of infections, or allergic reactions. Balancing the benefits of treatment with potential side effects can be a challenge for individuals with arthritis.
• Navigating Healthcare Systems. Accessing appropriate healthcare services and coordinating treatments from various specialists can be complex and time-consuming. This may involve scheduling appointments, obtaining referrals, managing insurance coverage, and advocating for comprehensive care.

Overall, the challenges of living with arthritis pain are multifaceted and can have a profound impact on physical, emotional, social, and financial aspects of one’s life. 

Effective management strategies, including medical treatments, lifestyle modifications, and psychological support, are essential for improving quality of life and coping with the difficulties of arthritis pain.

How do I Find an Arthritis Pain Specialist Near Me?

To find an arthritis pain specialist in or around Melbourne, you can start by asking your general practitioner for referrals to a pain management doctor.

Look for a doctor with a team or network of healthcare professionals who have experience treating patients with arthritis and related conditions for the best outcomes.

Ensure the pain management doctor has adequate training and years of local experience in treating this debilitating condition.

You can also consider asking friends, family, and even support groups (both online or in-person) for referrals to appropriate physicians with pain management teams. 

Persistent Pain Solutions for Arthritis Pain 

Dr Mittal and her collaborative team of multidisciplinary healthcare professionals are deeply committed to providing compassionate care to chronic pain patients. 

Arthritis or other chronic pain takes a major physical or emotional toll on both the patient and their loved ones; accordingly, finding relief can be a life-altering experience. 

The Persistent Pain Solutions clinic offers a healing environment where empathy, understanding, and support are prioritised.

Dr Mittal listens to your concerns and understands your needs and health goals. 

She listens attentively, thoroughly assesses your condition, and develops personalised treatment plans tailored to your unique circumstances and challenges. 

Compassion is essential to healing, after all, and Dr Mittal is dedicated to empowering you through pain relief.

Alleviating arthritis pain is essential to restoring your ability to enjoy your daily routine and improving your overall quality of life.