Arthritis Specialist
Wayne O. Alani, MD
Wayne O. Alani, MD
Orthopedic Surgeon located in Sugarland, TX & Houston, TX
Arthritis describes more than 100 different conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the joints. It often causes dysfunction when it strikes major joints, including the knees, wrists, ankles, elbows, shoulders, and hips. Orthopedic surgeon, Wayne O. Alani, MD, uses the most current, minimally invasive techniques to help you find relief from arthritis pain. People of all ages who suffer from arthritis and live in Sugar Land and Houston, Texas, can take advantage of his expertise. Call one of the offices or book an appointment online to schedule a consultation with Dr. Alani today.
Arthritis Q & A
What are the symptoms of arthritis?
Arthritis pain can range from mild to severe. It may come and go, or worsen with time and become chronic.
Swelling, stiffness, joint pain, and decreased range of motion indicate arthritis. Severe symptoms may hamper your daily activities, such as walking or climbing stairs. Over time, arthritis can cause permanent joint changes.
What are the types of arthritis?
The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, which occurs due to degeneration and wear and tear on the joints over time. Cartilage, which is connective tissue that cushions the ends of your bones, wears away so you experience bone-on-bone friction.
Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition in which your immune system attacks your connective tissue, is another frequent cause of arthritis pain.
Arthritis can also result from an infection or metabolic dysfunction.
How is arthritis diagnosed?
Should you show signs of arthritis through blood tests and imaging scans, your primary care physician may refer you to Dr. Alani. Dr. Alani reviews these tests and may order more, including X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. He assesses your symptoms, medical history, and all of the test results to determine if surgery is the best option for you.
What is the treatment for arthritis?
Lifestyle changes and medication are effective ways to mitigate arthritis pain. Weight loss, quitting smoking, bracing, hot and cold therapy, and regular physical activity help alleviate moderate pain. Over-the-counter and prescription medications can also help.
If these measures aren’t adequate, Dr. Alani may prescribe other nonsurgical treatments, such as physical therapy or various injections into the affected joints, including platelet-rich plasma or stem cell therapy.
In some cases, especially with osteoarthritis, surgery is a valid treatment option. Dr. Alani can help you understand if a total hip or knee replacement, for example, is the best treatment for you. He uses the latest, minimally invasive surgical techniques and his 30+ years of experience to provide you with the best possible care.
During joint replacement surgery, Dr. Alani removes the damaged tissue and replaces it with a prosthetic device. In most cases, joint replacement surgery greatly reduces your pain and restores function in compromised hips and knees.
If you have joint pain due to arthritis, call the office of Dr. Wayne O. Alani or book a consultation online to learn more about surgical treatments that can resolve your pain and restore normal function.