Top Arthritis Doctor in Catonsville, MD
Inflammation of the joints is commonly referred to as arthritis. There are more than a hundred types of arthritis, and each one can lead to joint pain and stiffness. Arthritis is frequently characterized by joint pain, stiffness, swelling, redness, and warmth surrounding that particular joint. Our board-certified rheumatologists, Dr. Nasseri, MD, Dr. Talebi, MD, Dr. Forghani, MD, and Dr. Landis, MD, emphasize excellence, ethics, and convenience while providing compassionate, all-encompassing treatment. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 700 Geipe Rd, Suite 200B, Catonsville, MD 21228.




Table of Contents:
What are the warning signs of arthritis?
Can cracking knuckles cause arthritis?
What type of doctors treat arthritis?
What is the patient’s role in treating or managing arthritis?
Arthritis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the joints, can present with various warning signs. Recognizing these early symptoms is crucial for managing the disease effectively and mitigating its impact on daily life. One of the most common early signs of arthritis is persistent joint pain. This pain can range from a dull ache to a sharp, severe pain and is often exacerbated by movement or after periods of inactivity. Joint stiffness, especially after waking up in the morning or after sitting for a long time, is another key indicator. This stiffness can last for a short period or persist throughout the day, making it difficult to perform daily activities. Aggravation can cause the affected joints to swell. This swelling is often accompanied by warmth and redness around the joint area. Swollen joints may feel tender to the touch and can limit the range of motion. In some forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic symptoms may occur. These can include fever, weight loss, and a general feeling of being unwell. These systemic signs are indicative of the body-wide nature of the inflammatory process. Crepitus, which is known as a grating or crackling sensation or sound that occurs when the affected joint is moved, is caused by the roughened surfaces of the cartilage or bone rubbing against each other and can occur in more advanced stages of arthritis.
Early recognition of these warning signs is crucial for the timely diagnosis and management of arthritis.
Cracking knuckles is a common habit that many people engage in, often without much thought about the potential consequences. A widespread belief exists that this habit may lead to arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, later in life. However, this assertion has been the subject of much debate and research. Knuckle cracking is when you stretch or bend your fingers, causing them to make a popping sound. This sound is the result of changes in pressure within the joint. The joints in your fingers are surrounded by a fluid-filled capsule, which lubricates the joints and allows for smooth movement. When you stretch the joint, the pressure within the capsule decreases, forming gas bubbles in the synovial fluid. The cracking sound is produced when these bubbles collapse or burst. The belief that knuckle cracking leads to arthritis is pervasive, but largely based on anecdotal evidence rather than scientific proof. This myth may stem from the general assumption that repetitive stress on joints can lead to degenerative changes, similar to those seen in arthritis. The prevailing scientific consensus is that knuckle cracking does not cause arthritis. Despite widespread beliefs to the contrary, numerous studies have found no significant link between the habit and the development of osteoarthritis or other types of arthritis. However, while knuckle cracking is generally considered harmless, it should be done gently to avoid potential soft tissue injuries.
Arthritis is a complex condition that can manifest in many forms, each requiring specific medical expertise for effective management. Various types of doctors and healthcare professionals are involved in diagnosing, treating, and managing arthritis. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing joint pain or other symptoms of arthritis. Rheumatologists are specialists in diagnosing and treating rheumatic diseases, including all forms of arthritis. They are highly trained in understanding the complexities of arthritis and other autoimmune conditions. Depending on the severity of the arthritis you may see an orthopedic surgeon as they are often involved in treating arthritis when surgical intervention is required.
Managing arthritis is a collaborative process between patients and healthcare providers, with patients playing a vital role in various aspects of their treatment and management. Patients should educate themselves about their specific type of arthritis, including its symptoms, progression, and treatment options. Staying informed about new research, treatments, and management strategies is crucial, as is recognizing the importance of early diagnosis and intervention. Patients can significantly influence their health outcomes by staying informed, adhering to treatment plans, engaging in regular physical activity, adopting a healthy diet, and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers. Active participation in their care not only helps manage symptoms but also enhances overall quality of life, enabling patients to live more fully despite the challenges of arthritis.
At the Nasseri Clinic of Arthritic and Rheumatic Diseases, we treat each patient according to their individual needs. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 700 Geipe Rd, Suite 200B, Catonsville, MD 21228. We serve patients from Catonsville MD, Hebbville MD, Woodlawn MD, Arbutus MD, Ellicott City MD, and surrounding areas.

Additional Services You May Need
▸ Arthritis Care
▸ Infusion Therapy
▸ Lab Services
▸ Radiology
▸ NCARD NRACE
▸ BioFlex Laser Therapy
▸ Ultrasound Guided Injection
▸ NCARD PRP
▸ NCARD Myers
▸ Rheumatology
▸ Myositis
▸ Osteoporosis
▸ Ulcerative Colitis
▸ Multiple Sclerosis
▸ Saphnelo Infusion
▸ Injection Treatments
▸ Intravenous Immunoglobulin Therapy
▸ Asthma
▸ Crohn’s Disease
▸ Fibromyalgia
▸ Infusion Therapy for Gout
▸ Inflammatory Eye Disease
▸ Inflammatory Skin Disease
▸ Vasculitis
▸ Iron Deficiency
▸ Lupus

Additional Services You May Need
▸ Arthritis Care
▸ Infusion Therapy
▸ Lab Services
▸ Radiology
▸ NCARD NRACE
▸ BioFlex Laser Therapy
▸ Ultrasound Guided Injection
▸ NCARD PRP
▸ NCARD Myers
▸ Rheumatology
▸ Myositis
▸ Osteoporosis
▸ Ulcerative Colitis
▸ Multiple Sclerosis
▸ Saphnelo Infusion
▸ Injection Treatments
▸ Intravenous Immunoglobulin Therapy
▸ Asthma
▸ Crohn’s Disease
▸ Fibromyalgia
▸ Infusion Therapy for Gout
▸ Inflammatory Eye Disease
▸ Inflammatory Skin Disease
▸ Vasculitis
▸ Iron Deficiency
▸ Lupus