Debunking Myths ... Arthritis Style

           It doesn’t take you long on the Internet to find some pretty amazing “natural” cures to what ails you -- from apple cider vinegar for gout to gin-soaked raisins for arthritis.  What took us on this quest for “knowledge” was a patient telling us that her mother used a well-known greasing agent (that uses letters and numbers in its name brand) to give her relief from joint pain.  We were appalled, but did our own research and found that it was, indeed, a pretty common MYTH.  Unfortunately, using this greasing agent can not only dry out your skin, but it can also have cumulative harmful effects due to the kerosene it contains.  Therefore, we strongly encourage you to call us to 1) get a proper diagnosis for your Rheumatological condition, and then 2) understand that more medications have been discovered in the last 10 years for arthritis, and its associated conditions, than in the last 100 years!  We do understand that there are some herbs and natural compounds that may give you relief from your pain, but wouldn’t you rather be safe than sorry?  Call us today, because – Pain is not normal! And, The Arthritis and Infusion Center can help! 

Venus Williams diagnosed with Sjorgen's Syndrome

In late August, The New York Times reported that Venus Williams exited the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center due to a diagnosis of Sjogren’s Syndrome.  Originally thought to be a viral illness in Ms. Williams, The Arthritis Foundation advises that “This autoimmune condition involves more than just chronic dry eyes and mouth – it can affect other organs and systems as well.  Symptoms may include pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints, rashes on the arms and legs, and inflammation of tiny blood vessels.  The lungs, liver, and kidneys may become inflamed; some people develop tingling and numbness in the limbs because of neurological involvement.”  Dr. Hulon Crayton, of The Arthritis and Infusion Center, is the longest-tenured Rheumatologist in this region who is well versed in the treatment of not only Sjogren’s Syndrome, but Dr. Crayton has a broad range of exposure to all manifestations of Rheumatological diseases.  While a diagnosis of Sjogren’s Syndrome is not life threatening, unfortunately (to date), there is no cure.  The Arthritis and Infusion Center has the most current information regarding this condition, and the sooner you address the symptoms, the sooner you can manage this condition. Remember the theme of The Arthritis and Infusion Center:  Pain is not normal.  Let The Arthritis and Infusion Center help!©

“The Silent Killer” … Another Name for Osteoporosis

Unfortunately, elderly patients with osteoporosis are the most vulnerable for compression fractures, which are broken bones of the spine. This fracture normally occurs with osteoporosis, but could also be caused from trauma to the back or tumors in the bone.

Symptoms of Compression Fractures, which cause severe back pain, usually occur in the mid to lower part of the spine. Our patients have described “shooting” pains that are aggravated by walking and a stooped posture.

The tests that are recommended for Compression Fractures include a bone density test to evaluate the osteoporosis that may be present, followed by a CT or MRI scan if there is concern that the fracture was caused by the trauma or tumors (mentioned above).

Fortunately, treatment is available and healing can occur over eight to ten weeks. There are medications available to treat osteoporosis, which can help prevent future fractures, but when vertebrae have already collapsed, treatment cannot reverse the fracture.

Immediately contact Dr. Crayton at The Arthritis and Infusion Center if you have back pain and think you may have experienced a compression fracture. The sooner you seek medical help, the faster we can ease your pain and get to the bottom of what is causing your discomfort. Remember our slogan: “Pain is not normal. Let us help.”