Joint pain in the hands can significantly impact daily life, making even simple tasks challenging. Two common causes of joint pain are rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Both conditions have overlapping conditions, which can cause confusion in diagnosis and treatment. Understanding the differences between Rheumatoid Arthritis vs. Gout is important, so that patients get the care they need and the relief they deserve. Seeing an orthopedic hand specialist near me at OrthoOIC in Arlington, VA, can help ensure that you get specialized care and appropriate treatment for your hand pain.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation to joints through the body. The body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, known as the synovium. The chronic inflammation leads to pain, swelling, stiffness, and eventually, joint damage. Rheumatoid arthritis typically affects smaller joints first, often in the hands and wrists. Symptoms can fluctuate, with periods of flare-ups and remissions. While other forms of arthritis are generally localized pain, symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis present symmetrically. For example, symptoms will present in both hands, rather than only in one hand, like with a specific injury. Unlike a hand overuse injury, RA is an autoimmune disease that eventually impacts multiple body systems, not just the joints.
Gout, on the other hand, is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. Uric acid buildup on the joints is caused by overproduction or an inability to naturally process and eliminate uric acid. The symptoms of gout include sudden, severe pain, redness, swelling, and tenderness. Gout symptoms are most commonly felt in the big toe, but it can also affect the hands, wrists, and other joints. Unlike Rheumatoid arthritis, gout attacks are typically episodic flare ups and have periods of remission in between. Recognizing the difference between Rheumatoid Arthritis vs. Gout is essential for proper pain and symptom management.
For accurate diagnosis and accurate treatment of hand joint pain, finding an orthopedic hand specialist near me may be beneficial. Hand specialists are equipped to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, from arthritis and gout to fractures, nerve, and tendon injuries. A hand specialist can recognize the symptomatic differences between Rheumatoid arthritis vs. gout. An appropriate joint pain diagnosis helps patients alleviate pain and restore hand function.
Sudden, intense joint pain in your hands can be alarming. When you experience severe pain, swelling, or redness, especially during a suspected gout flare or possible Rheumatoid arthritis, seeking urgent care for joint pain is crucial. OrthoOIC in Arlington, VA, offers specialized orthopedic urgent care, providing prompt and efficient evaluation and treatment. Timely intervention can help manage pain, prevent further joint damage, and ensure a quick return to daily activities.
Do not dismiss severe or sudden pain while questioning when to visit an urgent care for joint pain. At OrthoOIC, we prioritize patient care and satisfaction. Receive quality treatment and relief at the best urgent care center in Arlington, VA. Our state-of-the-art facility and qualified orthopedic specialists for treating joint pain and related conditions. Whether you’re dealing with a common sports injury, gout flare-up, or more severe joint pain and issues, OrthoOIC is ready to help. Don’t delay seeking help. We offer extended hours during the week to accommodate busy schedules and convenient weekend hours. In addition to our walk-in availability, we also offer the option to schedule an appointment for your convenience.