Introduction
Arthritis is one of the leading causes of joint pain and stiffness, affecting millions of people across Georgia. For residents of Dawsonville, GA, access to effective arthritis pain treatment is essential for maintaining mobility, reducing pain, and improving quality of life. Dr. Thomas Neustein and the team at Specialty Orthopaedics provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment options, from conservative care to advanced procedures, tailored to each patient’s needs.
Understanding Arthritis
Arthritis refers to inflammation of the joints, which can damage cartilage, bones, and surrounding soft tissues. Common types include osteoarthritis, which results from wear and tear over time, and inflammatory forms such as rheumatoid arthritis. Patients may experience joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and other symptoms that interfere with daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, or using the hands.
Causes and Risk Factors
Arthritis pain may develop due to aging, prior injury, repetitive motion, or underlying medical history such as autoimmune disease. Occupations that involve heavy physical labor can accelerate joint wear, while genetics may also play a role. The joints of the knee, hip, ankle, spine, and hand are frequently affected, and inflammation in these areas can significantly limit function.
Diagnosing Arthritis Pain
Accurate diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment. Dr. Neustein takes a complete medical history, performs a physical examination, and may order X-rays or other imaging to evaluate joint damage. For some patients, advanced studies of nerves or soft tissues are used to determine whether arthritis or another condition is the root cause of pain.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Many patients in Dawsonville respond well to non-surgical options. Physical therapy helps restore mobility and maintain a full range of motion. Medications and injections may reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Heat, rest, and lifestyle adjustments can also be effective in reducing symptoms. When initial treatments are ineffective, interventional pain management techniques may be considered.
Interventional Pain Management
For patients with chronic pain that does not improve with conservative measures, interventional pain options are available. Procedures such as nerve blocks, targeted injections, and other minimally invasive treatments can reduce pain and improve function. These approaches are performed by board-certified physicians to ensure safety and professional results.
Surgical Treatments
If arthritis severely affects the joints and non-surgical care fails, surgery may be recommended. Depending on the joint involved, procedures can include joint repair, cartilage restoration, or in advanced cases, joint replacement. Surgery is always considered the best course only when other treatments have been exhausted.
Managing Chronic Pain
Arthritis often leads to long-term discomfort. Chronic pain can affect mobility, sleep, and overall quality of life. Through a combination of physical therapy, interventional pain strategies, and lifestyle adjustments, many patients achieve better control of symptoms and improved movement.
Conditions Treated
At Specialty Orthopaedics, patients from Dawsonville and nearby communities such as Cumming and North Georgia are treated for a wide range of arthritis-related problems. These include knee arthritis, hip arthritis, spinal arthritis, ankle arthritis, and arthritis of the hand, and foot. Dr. Neustein also treats related conditions like tendon tears, cartilage damage, and joint injuries.
The Role of the Spine in Arthritis Pain
Spinal arthritis can affect nerves that run from the neck down into the arms or from the lower back into the legs and feet. These changes may cause stiffness, weakness, or numbness. Proper evaluation ensures that both the spine and other joints are considered in the treatment plan.
Restoring Function and Mobility
The goal of arthritis pain treatment is not only to reduce pain but also to restore function. Patients often find they can walk more comfortably, return to favorite activities, and regain independence. With the right treatments, many people experience meaningful relief and better long-term outcomes.
Why Choose Dr. Neustein
Dr. Thomas Neustein is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hand, wrist, elbow, and upper extremity surgery while also providing expert care for arthritis in other joints. Patients in Dawsonville GA and surrounding areas highly recommend Dr. Neustein for his compassionate approach and professional expertise. His practice combines advanced orthopedic surgery with interventional pain management strategies to provide comprehensive medical care.
Schedule Your Appointment
If you are suffering from arthritis pain in Dawsonville, GA, don’t wait until symptoms worsen. Schedule a consultation today with Dr. Neustein to discuss your options. Whether you need physical therapy, medications, injections, or advanced procedures, he will determine the best treatment plan for your needs. Contact our Dawsonville office to request an appointment online or by phone and take the first step toward relief.
