If you struggle with movement and joint pain, and you find that it's an ongoing problem, then you may want to talk to our doctor about rheumatoid arthritis, learn more by getting in contact with Dr. Mary Olsen at Virgin Islands Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine in St. Croix, St. Thomas, and Tortola.
Autoimmune Disease
Although the underlying reason for the condition isn't known, what causes the symptoms is an immune reaction whereby your body attacks healthy cells by mistake. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease that primarily affects your joints, though it can affect other tissues as well.
The condition can cause your joints to become inflamed, it can damage joint tissue, cause stiffness and long-lasting pain.
Symptoms
Just about everyone suffers from muscle or joint pain, these are parts of your body that are meant to be in constant motion, so a little discomfort is to be expected. But if you are struggling with pain for more than just a few days, if your discomfort doesn't improve over time, or if you find yourself often turning to over-the-counter medication for relief, then it may be time to see a doctor for help.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment in St. Croix, St. Thomas, and Tortola
Treatment involves a variety of approaches, from the use of medication to injections to reduce inflammation and lifestyle changes. Changes include making improvements to your diet, exercise to maintain effective movement of your joints, as well as stress management. You may also be referred to other specialists if needed, like physical therapists, for example.
The overall treatment goals are to help you regain the function of your joints, prevent complications and arthritis progression, as well as to improve your quality of life.
If you are exploring treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis and live in St. Croix, St. Thomas, and Tortola you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Mary Olsen of Virgin Islands Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine by dialing (340) 714-2845 for the Saint Thomas office and (340) 692-5000 for St. Croix.