Post-traumatic arthritis

Post-traumatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that occurs after an injury to the joint. This condition can develop after a physical trauma such as a fracture, dislocation, or ligament damage. The injury can lead to changes in the joint, which can cause pain, swelling, and limited mobility.

Causes

Post-traumatic arthritis is caused by the wearing out of a joint that has had any kind of physical injury. The injury could be from sports, a vehicle accident, a fall, or any other source of physical trauma. Such injuries can damage the cartilage and cause it to wear out more quickly than usual.

Symptoms

The symptoms of post-traumatic arthritis can vary depending on the joint involved and the severity of the injury. Common symptoms include:

• Pain in the joint
• Swelling or tenderness in the joint
• Stiffness or reduced movement in the joint
• Changes in the shape or appearance of the joint

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of post-traumatic arthritis is typically made through a combination of patient history, physical examination, and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scan. These tests can help to identify changes in the joint that may indicate post-traumatic arthritis.

Treatment

Treatment for post-traumatic arthritis focuses on relieving symptoms and improving joint function. This may include:

• Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility
• Pain medication to control pain
• Surgery to repair or replace the damaged joint

See also

• Arthritis
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis

References

Post-traumatic arthritis Resources
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