Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced movement in one or more joints. While there are many types, the two most common are osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear of the joint) and rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune inflammation of the joint lining). Early recognition and treatment preserve joint function and quality of life.
Osteoarthritis (OA) — cartilage breakdown over time leading to pain and stiffness, often in knees, hips, hands and spine.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) — an autoimmune disease causing joint inflammation, swelling, and possible deformity if untreated.
Gout, Psoriatic Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, and Reactive Arthritis — other forms with distinct causes and treatments; accurate diagnosis is essential to direct therapy.
Typical symptoms include joint pain, morning stiffness, swelling, reduced range of motion, warmth or redness around a joint, and difficulty doing daily tasks. In inflammatory types (like RA), patients may also experience fatigue, low-grade fever, or generalized weakness. If you notice persistent joint symptoms, early assessment helps prevent lasting damage.
Dr. Suhail’s evidence-based approach includes:
Medical Nutrition Therapy: Personalized dietary plans to minimize processed food intake, reduce glycemic spikes, and support healthy weight.
Physical Activity Plans: Tailored exercise regimens blending aerobic and resistance training to enhance insulin sensitivity.
Weight Loss Support: Structured programs to safely achieve and sustain weight loss goals.
Behavioral Care: Education and motivation strategies to encourage long-term adherence to lifestyle modifications.
Digital Tools: Integration of glucose monitoring and supportive technologies for better self-management.
Diagnosis begins with a clinical exam—your doctor checks joints for swelling, tenderness, range of motion and function. Blood tests (e.g., rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP, inflammatory markers) and imaging (X-rays, ultrasound, MRI) help differentiate types and assess severity. Early diagnosis enables earlier, more effective treatment.
Dr. Suhail uses a stepwise, individualized plan that may include:
Education & self-management — teaching patients joint-protecting techniques and lifestyle changes.
Medications — pain relievers (NSAIDs, acetaminophen), disease-modifying agents (DMARDs) for inflammatory arthritis, corticosteroid injections for targeted relief, and biologics where indicated.
Physical & Occupational Therapy — customized programs to restore function, strengthen muscles around joints, and recommend adaptive tools.
Interventional & Surgical Options — steroid injections, arthroscopy or joint replacement for advanced disease when conservative care is insufficient.
Small daily changes significantly improve outcomes:
Anti-inflammatory eating: diets emphasizing fish, olive oil, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and legumes (similar to a Mediterranean/anti-inflammatory diet) can help reduce systemic inflammation and support joint health. Avoid excess processed foods, sugar, and trans fats.
Weight management: reducing body weight lowers stress on load-bearing joints and decreases symptoms of knee and hip arthritis.
Joint protection: use assistive devices when needed, modify activities to avoid repetitive strain, and learn safe movement patterns from an occupational therapist.
Regular, gentle activity keeps joints mobile and muscles strong. Recommended forms include:
Low-impact aerobic exercise (walking, cycling, treadmill), water-based activities (swimming, water aerobics), and strength training (resistance bands, bodyweight exercises) to support joint stability.
Community programs like “Walk With Ease” and other evidence-based exercise interventions improve pain and function and are often recommended for people with arthritis. Start slowly and tailor activity to pain levels—sharp or worsening pain should prompt reassessment.
Seek medical care if you have persistent joint pain or swelling, morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes, sudden severe joint pain, or systemic symptoms (fever, unexplained weight loss). Early evaluation is especially important for inflammatory arthritis to start disease-modifying therapy promptly.
With over 22 years of clinical experience in Internal Medicine and a patient-centered approach, Dr. Suhail provides:
Comprehensive diagnosis and tailored treatment plans.
Integration of medical therapy, physiotherapy referrals, nutrition advice, and ongoing support.
Accessible care at Dr. Suhail’s Diabetic Clinic (Rajendra Nagar) and LifePrime Clinic (Tolichowki), plus coordination with hospital services when needed.
Detailed history and symptom review.
Focused joint exam and functional assessment.
Baseline labs and imaging if indicated.
An individualized plan covering medication options, physiotherapy, diet, and follow-up schedule.
Education about self-management, exercise, and when to seek urgent care.
Can arthritis be cured? Some types (e.g., osteoarthritis) are managed rather than cured; inflammatory arthritis can be controlled and progression reduced with timely treatment.
Is exercise safe? Yes—when adapted to the person’s condition and started gradually; it’s one of the most effective non-drug ways to reduce pain and improve function.
What diet helps? An anti-inflammatory or Mediterranean-style diet rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and fiber supports joint health.
Call to schedule: (+91) 99598 05309
Rajendra Nagar — Dr. Suhail’s Diabetic Clinic
Tolichowki — LifePrime Clinic