Arthritis affects millions of people, causing joint pain, stiffness, and swelling that can significantly impact daily life. Whether it’s osteoarthritis from years of wear and tear, rheumatoid arthritis from an autoimmune response, or another form of joint inflammation, arthritis requires expert management to preserve mobility and quality of life. While commonly associated with aging, arthritis can affect people of all ages, from young athletes recovering from injuries to older adults managing chronic bone and joint conditions.
At Prima Medicine in Fairfax, South Riding, Merrifield, and Tysons, VA, Dr. Chethana Rao and her team provide comprehensive arthritis care. We combine advanced diagnostic tools with personalized treatment plans to help patients manage pain, reduce inflammation, and maintain an active lifestyle.
Different Types of Arthritis
Recognizing Arthritis Symptoms
Common signs of arthritis may include:
- Joint pain: Ongoing pain in one or more joints.
- Morning stiffness: Stiff joints that improve after moving around.
- Joint swelling: Puffiness or tenderness around affected joints.
- Reduced movement: Difficulty bending or fully moving a joint.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired.
- Other symptoms: Some people may experience low fever, dry eyes, or dry mouth depending on the type of arthritis.
How Arthritis Is Diagnosed
Dr. Rao begins with a thorough physical examination to assess joint tenderness, swelling, and mobility. Diagnostic testing may include blood work to identify inflammatory markers or antibodies, urinalysis, and joint fluid analysis. Imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI scans reveal the extent of joint damage. In some cases, arthroscopy—a minimally invasive procedure using a small camera—allows direct visualization of the joint interior.
Treatment Options for Arthritis
Arthritis care often includes a combination of treatments to help reduce pain and protect joint health:
- Medications: Help reduce pain, control inflammation, and slow joint damage.
- Physical therapy: Exercises improve joint flexibility and strengthen muscles.
- Lifestyle changes: Maintaining a healthy weight and staying active reduces stress on joints.
- Heat and cold therapy: Heat can ease stiffness, while cold helps reduce swelling.
- Assistive devices: Canes or walkers can improve mobility and reduce joint strain.
- Surgery (in severe cases): Procedures may repair damaged joints or replace them.
- Coordinated care: Older adults may benefit from comprehensive support through geriatric care services.
Why Choose Prima Medicine?
Prima Medicine is a state-of-the-art primary care practice and a proud member of Privia Medical Group, recognized nationally for physician-directed, coordinated care. Under Dr. Rao’s leadership, our team never rushes through appointments—we take the time to thoroughly understand your symptoms, lifestyle, and health goals. We offer same-day and next-day appointments when arthritis symptoms flare, plus weekend hours for your convenience.
Dr. Rao’s expertise in chronic disease management, combined with our access to advanced diagnostic technologies and evidence-based treatment approaches, ensures you receive comprehensive arthritis care. From initial diagnosis through ongoing management, we’re committed to helping you maintain mobility, reduce pain, and enjoy the activities that matter most to you.
Schedule Your Arthritis Consultation Today
Don’t let joint pain limit your life. Prima Medicine serves patients throughout Fairfax, South Riding, Merrifield, and Tysons, VA, with expert arthritis diagnosis and treatment. Call (703) 870-3750 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Chethana Rao, or book your appointment online today. We’re here to help you move comfortably and live fully.
