Arthritis
Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento
Diseases of the joints are referred to as arthritis. The most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis, occurs when the cartilage that prevents bones from rubbing against each other breaks down at the joint. Over time, the breakdown can lead to increasing pain and loss of mobility requiring medical care that may include replacement of the affected joint through the Joint Replacement Center. Less common, rheumatoid arthritis affects the lining of the joints and destroys the cartilage. There are other forms of arthritis, including gout (gouty arthritis) caused by buildup of uric acid in the blood. Arthritis may also arise as a symptom of another disease, such as lupus or psoriasis.
At Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento, patients with all forms of arthritis can receive care through orthopaedic surgeons, rheumatologists, and other physicians who specialize in joint-related disease. To locate a Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento medical specialist, visit our physician locator. When treatment includes surgery or other care in a hospital setting, patients have the peace mind knowing they are receiving treatment at one the region’s foremost centers for orthopaedic care.
Patients may also participate in Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento classes and support groups specially created for patients dealing with ongoing management of arthritis.
To learn more about osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriasis, lupusand other forms of arthritis, visit our Health Information Library. Additional information is available from the Arthritis Foundation at www.arthritis.org.Back to top.