Joint Pain Specialist

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune system disorder in which the immune system malfunctions and begins to attack the body's own tissues, in this case, the joints. Common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include joints that appear red, swollen, and warm to the touch. Joints can become extremely stiff and sore, especially after periods of inactivity or first thing in the morning. In approximately 40% of patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, other structures in the body are also affected including the eyes, heart, lungs, nerves, blood vessels, kidneys, and skin. Every person will react differently to the disease, depending on the strength and functionality of their immune system.

What Causes a Sprain?

Sprains are the result of abnormal movement of a joint. Hyperflexion or overextension can cause the ligaments and tendons to be stretched or torn. Sprains can become quite swollen depending on the severity of the injury. Many athletic injuries are often diagnosed as sprains. Athletes often push themselves to their physical limits and beyond. Sprains that result in tears to the ligaments and tendons can take up to six to eight weeks to heal sufficiently enough for the person to return to the playing field. Sprains are not limited to athletes, however. A person can sprain an ankle or any other joint during a slip-and-fall accident or when performing activities around the home.

What Is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a medical condition characterized by the thinning of the bones. Thinner bones result in weakness and painful fractures. Age and sex are the biggest risk factors with older people and women being much more likely to develop the condition or suffer fractures. While these factors can’t be changed, Dr. Yanamadula suggests other preventative tactics including  exercise, calcium and vitamin D supplements, and osteoporosis medications are often prescribed to reduce risk and slow progression. He also helps patients to manage pain and discomfort following osteoporosis related injuries.

How Is Joint Pain Treated?

Dr. Yanamadula and the staff at Princeton Pain and Spine Institute offer a variety of pain management methods and treatments. Each patient is thoroughly examined to determine the cause and extent of the pain before a customized treatment plan is developed. Some of the treatments available include:

• Joint injections
• Visco-supplementation for arthritis
• Genicular Nerve Blocks
• Genicular Nerve Ablation