Arthritis Specialist
-
- Tweet
Jonathan S. Leibowitz, MD, PC
Board Certified in Internal Medicine & Primary Care & Nephrology located in Borough Park, Brooklyn, NY
Arthritis, the most common cause of joint pain in America, affects more than 50 million adults, with common symptoms including pain and stiffness. Jonathan S. Leibowitz, MD, PC, provides evidence-based, integrative care for arthritis so you can enjoy the activities you love. His practice is conveniently located in Borough Park, in Brooklyn, New York. Call today or book a consultation online.
Arthritis Q & A
How can I tell if I have arthritis?
Arthritis comes in more than 100 different forms, but these various types share some common symptoms, including:
- Pain in your joints
- Swelling
- Stiffness
- Difficulty moving
- Trouble grasping, such as holding a pen
Your symptoms may come and go. Sometimes arthritis symptoms flare-up when you perform certain activities or you’re under increased stress.
What causes arthritis?
Arthritis is triggered by different factors. Common causes include:
Degenerative arthritis
This is the most common form of arthritis. Often called osteoarthritis, it is brought on by repetitive trauma and overuse.
Inflammatory arthritis
This form of arthritis is usually caused by inflammation from autoimmune disorders. Types of inflammatory arthritis include psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Infectious arthritis
An infection that attacks your joint causes infectious arthritis. This can happen when bacteria enter the joint through a wound and can be very serious.
Metabolic arthritis
Metabolic arthritis happens when your body improperly deposits metabolic byproducts in your joints. This form of arthritis is a complication of gout or calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease (CPPD).
With board certifications in internal medicine and primary care, Dr. Leibowitz diagnoses your form of arthritis to recommend an appropriate treatment.
How is arthritis diagnosed?
Dr. Leibowitz and his team ask about your symptoms, including when they started and whether they come and go. He takes a complete medical history and asks about chronic diseases, such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Be sure to tell the medical team whether arthritis or autoimmune disorders run in your family.
Next, Dr. Leibowitz examines you. He feels your affected joint for warmth, swelling, and fluid. He moves the joint back and forth to assess your range of motion and typically recommends lab work or imaging tests to complete your diagnosis.
How is arthritis treated?
Dr. Leibowitz and his team tailor your treatment to your form of arthritis. The aim is to reduce pain and improve the function of your joints.
Dr. Leibowitz initially recommends a conservative plan that includes anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy to help increase movement in your joint. If your condition is connected to an autoimmune disorder, he recommends the appropriate medications to manage your condition and relieve arthritis symptoms.
Get the relief you deserve today. Call or book a consultation online with Jonathan S. Leibowitz, MD, PC.
