Arthritis Specialist Singapore
MBBS (SINGAPORE) MMED (ORTHO) FRCS ED (ORTH)
Arthritis is a common disorder that affects your joints, causing joint damage resulting in pain, inflammation and loss of mobility. There are many types of arthritis, and each form causes different symptoms. While arthritis usually affects older adults, it can develop in people of any age. Understanding your symptoms and seeking medical treatment as soon as possible is vital, as early diagnosis and management can reduce arthritis complications.
What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis is the swelling and inflammation of one or more joints in the body, commonly involving the knees, hips, shoulders, elbows, or spine.
However any joint in the body can be affected. Arthritis is also commonly associated with joint pain and stiffness, which usually worsen with age and time.
The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
What Causes Arthritis?
Common causes of arthritis include:
- Genetic predisposition
- Age or wear and tear (Osteoarthritis)
- Rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disease where the body’s defence system attacks the joint lining)
- Previous joint trauma or injury
What Are the Symptoms of Arthritis?
Common symptoms of arthritis include:
How Is Arthritis Diagnosed?
Your doctor will likely perform a physical examination of your joints to check for mobility and strength.
In addition, the following imaging tests may also be conducted:
- X-rays (can show cartilage loss, bone damage and bone spurs)
- CT scans (provide a more detailed image of the joints)
- MRI (reveal surrounding soft tissues around the joints)
- Blood, urine or joint fluid tests (to determine the type of arthritis)
How Is Shoulder Arthritis Treated?
Common treatment methods include:
- Rest
- Warm compression to minimise pain
- Taking pain relievers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis
- Corticosteroid injections
- “Gel” injections to lubricate the joint
- Protein solution injections using proteins derived from your own blood, to reduce inflammation within the joint
- Simple and gentle stretching exercises to slowly regain shoulder mobility and strength
Surgery may be recommended if your arthritis symptoms worsen or if non-surgical treatment options are ineffective.
Common surgical options include:
- Keyhole surgery. For this procedure, loose cartilage and debris within the joint can be removed to prevent them from getting caught within the joint during movements. These types of procedures are typically performed arthroscopically through 2 small incisions over the joint.
- Joint replacement. This procedure removes the damaged joint and replaces it with an artificial one made up of plastic and metal.
- Joint fusion. This procedure is typically performed for smaller joints, such as those in the wrist, ankle and fingers. A joint fusion removes the ends of the two bones in the joint and then locks them together until they heal into one rigid unit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is arthritis serious? When should I visit a doctor?
Can arthritis be prevented?
Billing & Payment
Medisave & Insurance Claims
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WHAT’S THE FIRST STEP?
Embark on Your Road to Recovery With Dr Bryan Tan
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With Dr. Bryan
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Initial Consultation & Diagnosis of your Condition
During your consultation, Dr. Bryan will evaluate your medical history and the pain you are experiencing. You may also ask Dr. Bryan any questions you may have about your condition.
Treatment & Follow Up Visits With Dr. Bryan
After your consultation with Dr. Bryan, our friendly clinic staff will assist you with your follow-up appointment, and provide you with instructions/information for any prescribed treatment plans from Dr. Bryan.
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Dr Bryan Tan