Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Arthritis
Arthritis encompasses over 100 different conditions affecting your joints. Understanding your specific type and treatment options is key to managing pain and maintaining mobility.
Diagnosis & Type
What type of arthritis do I have, and how did you determine that?
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis have very different treatments.
Will my arthritis get progressively worse, or can we slow it down?
Prognosis varies significantly by type — RA can be slowed with early treatment.
Do I need any imaging or blood tests to confirm the diagnosis?
X-rays, MRIs, and specific blood markers help confirm the type and severity.
Pain Management
What pain management approach do you recommend starting with?
Options range from OTC medications to biologics to joint replacement.
Are there physical therapy exercises that can help my specific joints?
Targeted PT is one of the most effective treatments for arthritis.
What about supplements like glucosamine — is there evidence they help?
Many patients take supplements — your doctor can separate evidence from marketing.
When should we consider more aggressive treatments like injections or surgery?
Understanding the progression helps with long-term planning.
Daily Life
What lifestyle modifications will protect my joints long-term?
Weight management, activity modification, and assistive devices all help.
Should I see a rheumatologist or is my primary care doctor sufficient?
Inflammatory arthritis often benefits from specialist care.