Arthritis Specialist

Houtan A. Taba, MD Our Services Arthritis
Houtan A. Taba, MD - - Orthopedic Surgeon

Houtan A. Taba, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon & Spine Surgeon located in Houston, TX & Pearland, TX

More than 22% of adults in the United States have arthritis, which causes joint pain and tenderness that progressively worsens and increases the risk of disability. Houtan Taba, MD, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis, offering both nonoperative and surgical options to alleviate pain so you can get back to doing the things you enjoy. To schedule an appointment with the orthopedic specialist, contact the office in the Texas Medical Center area of Houston or Pearland, Texas, by phone or online today.

Arthritis Q&A

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a medical term used to describe joint swelling and tenderness. Though often considered a single diagnosis, there are over 100 types of arthritis and conditions that cause arthritis. 

Pain and limited mobility are the most common symptoms of arthritis that usually worsen over time. Arthritis can affect any joint in your body, from your ankles to your fingers. It also affects the joints that make up your back and can be a source of chronic back pain.

Dr. Taba is an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in spine conditions and can help you manage any joint affected by arthritis, including your spine. 

What are the types of arthritis?

Many conditions can cause joint swelling and tenderness. The most common types of arthritis include:

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. Also known as wear-and-tear arthritis, it produces swelling and tenderness in the joint due to the wearing away of the cartilage that cushions your joint. In addition to your knees and shoulders, osteoarthritis also occurs in the lumbar spine and may cause conditions such as spinal stenosis or sciatica. 

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which your body’s own immune cells mistakenly attack the lining of your joints, leading to inflammation and swelling. Without treatment, rheumatoid arthritis may cause permanent joint deformities. 

Spondyloarthritis

Spondyloarthritis is a type of arthritis that causes inflammation in the joint, as well as the ligaments and tendons attached to the joint. There are several types of spondyloarthritis, including psoriatic arthritis and reactive arthritis. Ankylosing arthritis specifically affects the vertebrae and sacroiliac joints found at the base of your spine. 

How is arthritis treated?

Dr. Taba is an experienced orthopedic surgeon. However, when it comes to managing your arthritis, he takes a comprehensive, well-rounded approach focused on nonoperative options. 

Treatment for your arthritis may depend on the type of arthritis you have, the severity of your symptoms, and the joints affected. Your treatment plan may include:

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Disease-specific medication
  • Physical therapy
  • Steroid injections
  • Activity modification

If conservative methods no longer relieve your arthritis symptoms, Dr. Taba may suggest surgical intervention. The specifics of your surgery depend on the joint that is affected. 

For spinal arthritis, Dr. Taba specializes in a number of procedures, including lateral lumbar fusion, cervical disc replacement, and laminoplasty.

For expert care of your arthritis, contact the office of Houtan Taba, MD, by phone or online today.

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