Arthritis

Do you suffer from arthritis? We may be able to help.

According to the Arthritis Foundation, more than 50,000 adults suffer from the condition – that’s 1 in 5 adults over the age of 18. Adults aren’t the only ones. Children, too, can suffer from arthritis. The disease is so prevalent, in fact, that it has become the number one cause of disability in the United States.

Many adults who experience chronic joint pain, swelling and stiffness may avoid seeking medical care and accept the symptoms as a natural part of aging. What they may not know is that early diagnosis and treatment of the condition can help ease their pain and help protect their joints from permanent damage caused by unchecked inflammation. Furthermore, some types of arthritis can damage the heart or other organs, so it makes sense to understand what’s happening as soon as possible and seek prompt treatment.

Arthritis is not always an easy thing to diagnose. Doctors often rely on X-rays to visualize the joint and better understand what’s going on. In some cases, ultrasound and MRI may also be used to get a better look at the problem. X-ray images can help your doctor determine if the structure of your joint has changed, or show signs of joint erosion or a lack of cartilage needed to adequately cushion your bones. In addition to this, images can show fluid, soft tissue tears or any inflammation that may be contributing to the problem.

At Advanced Imaging, X-rays are offered as a drop-in service, meaning patients can usually obtain X-ray images the same day that their physician referral is provided.

Joint pain and swelling is not something you have to accept as “a normal part of getting older”. Understanding the cause of your symptoms may be the first best step to reducing or eliminating them, and living a more active, healthy life for many years to come. Discuss your symptoms with your health care provider, and if you need imaging, please ask for Advanced Imaging. We’re here to serve you.