Arthritis Conditions Treatment in Tarlac

Arthritis is a group of conditions that cause inflammation, pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility in the joints. At Tarlac Medical Center, we provide comprehensive evaluation and management of arthritis to help patients reduce pain, preserve joint function, and maintain an active lifestyle.

Arthritis affects millions worldwide and can result from wear-and-tear, autoimmune responses, or injury. Early diagnosis and proper management are key to preventing progression and maintaining quality of life.

Types of Arthritis

We treat various forms of arthritis, including:

• Osteoarthritis (OA): Degenerative joint disease commonly affecting knees, hips, and hands.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): Autoimmune condition causing joint inflammation, pain, and swelling.
  • Psoriatic Arthritis: Arthritis associated with psoriasis, affecting joints and skin.
  • Gout: Inflammatory arthritis caused by uric acid crystals in the joints.
  • Juvenile Arthritis: Arthritis affecting children, causing stiffness and growth issues.

Each type requires individualized management to address the underlying cause and relieve symptoms effectively.

Symptoms of Arthritis

Common signs include:

• Joint pain, tenderness, or swelling
  • Stiffness, especially in the morning or after inactivity
  • Reduced range of motion
  • Redness or warmth over affected joints
  • Fatigue and general malaise (especially in autoimmune forms)

A thorough evaluation helps identify the specific arthritis type and guides appropriate treatment.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

At Tarlac Medical Center, our arthritis assessment includes:

• Medical history review and physical examination
  • Imaging studies such as X-ray, MRI, or ultrasound to assess joint damage
  • Laboratory tests to detect inflammation markers or autoimmune activity
  • Functional assessment to evaluate mobility, strength, and daily activity limitations

This comprehensive approach ensures an accurate diagnosis and personalized care plan.

Treatment and Management

Our arthritis management focuses on symptom relief, preserving joint function, and preventing progression:

1. Medications:
   • Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain and swelling
   • Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for autoimmune arthritis
   • Corticosteroids for acute flare-ups
   • Pain relievers as needed
2. Physical Therapy and Exercise:
   • Strengthening and stretching exercises to support joints
   • Low-impact aerobic activity for mobility and circulation
   • Posture and gait training to reduce joint strain
3. Supportive Devices:
   • Braces or orthoses to stabilize and support affected joints
   • Assistive devices for daily activities as needed
4. Complementary Therapies:
   • Kinesiotaping for joint support
   • Acupuncture or laser therapy for pain relief and inflammation reduction
   • Lifestyle counseling, including diet and weight management
5. Surgical Intervention (if necessary):
   • Joint replacement (knee, hip, shoulder)
   • Arthroscopy for minimally invasive joint repair

Recovery and Long-Term Care

Recovery and management depend on arthritis severity and treatment type:

• Early-stage arthritis may improve within weeks with medication, therapy, and lifestyle modifications
  • Chronic or advanced arthritis may require long-term management, including periodic therapy sessions, medications, or surgical intervention
  • Maintaining physical activity, joint protection, and adherence to treatment plans reduces pain and preserves mobility

Our multidisciplinary approach ensures patients regain function, minimize discomfort, and maintain independence in daily activities.

Why Choose Tarlac Medical Center?

• Experienced rheumatologists, orthopedic, and rehabilitation specialists
  • Comprehensive diagnostic and imaging facilities
  • Personalized treatment plans tailored to each arthritis type
  • Integration of therapy, medications, and supportive devices
  • Private and comfortable care environment
  • Patient-centered approach emphasizing functional improvement and long-term quality of life