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Sub-Category:

Trauma Leading to Inflammatory Conditions

Number of Conditions: 1

Post-traumatic arthritis

Specialty: Orthopedics and Rheumatology

Category: Conditions with Overlap

Sub-category: Trauma Leading to Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
joint pain, especially after physical activity; swelling and tenderness around the joint; stiffness, particularly in the morning or after prolonged inactivity; limited range of motion in the affected joint; decreased strength and function in the joint

Root Cause:
Damage to the joint cartilage and bones due to previous trauma (e.g., fracture, dislocation) leads to chronic inflammation and degeneration of the joint surfaces, ultimately causing arthritis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, including patient history of trauma and physical examination. Imaging tests (X-rays, MRI, CT scans) to assess joint damage, cartilage wear, and bone changes. Joint aspiration (synovial fluid analysis) in certain cases to rule out other types of arthritis.

Treatment:
Non-surgical treatment - Physical therapy, joint rest, lifestyle modification (e.g., weight management), bracing, and activity modifications. Surgical treatment - Arthroscopy, joint replacement (total or partial), or fusion in severe cases

Medications:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen , to reduce pain and inflammation (classified as analgesics and anti-inflammatory agents). Corticosteroids, administered orally or via injection, to control inflammation (classified as anti-inflammatory agents). Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) may be used in some cases for symptom control (classified as immunosuppressive agents). Hyaluronic acid injections for joint lubrication (classified as viscosupplements)

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
The condition is common following joint injuries, particularly in weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and ankles. Post-traumatic arthritis occurs in 5-10% of individuals with joint injuries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Previous joint injury (fractures, dislocations, ligament tears). Age (older individuals are at higher risk). Joint instability or misalignment. Obesity, which increases stress on the joints.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The condition can be managed with conservative treatments, but if left untreated, it can lead to significant joint damage, requiring surgical intervention. Long-term outcomes vary depending on severity.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Progressive joint degeneration and loss of function. Chronic pain. Development of bone spurs (osteophytes). Disability and difficulty with daily activities. Increased risk of needing joint replacement surgery.