Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis

Also known as: Arthritis, rheumatoid; RA

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammation of the membranes or tissues lining the joints. Over time, rheumatoid arthritis may destroy the joint tissues, including cartilage, ligaments, tendons and bone and, in rare but severe cases, may cause organ damage.

Providence Orthopedic Institute offers professional treatment for adults and children in the following areas: joint reconstruction, revisions, foot and ankle injuries, hand and upper extremity surgery, fracture care, trauma and sports injuries. We use a variety of assessment and treatment tools to establish an accurate diagnosis quickly and to develop a plan of care that is tailored to the needs of each patient.

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Forms & Information

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New Patient Forms: PMG-Hood River Rheumatology

To prepare for your visit with Dr. Dan Sager, please bring this completed form with you for your initial appointment. In addition we will also need your photo ID and current medical insurance card.

From the experts

Ask an Expert: Arthritis pain relievers

I used to take Bextra for my arthritis, but when the Food and Drug Administration asked Pfizer to stop selling it, my doctor put me on Celebrex. I am worried about reports saying that they increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. What should I do?

Ask an Expert: Biologic response modifiers (BRMs)

Q: I’ve heard about new “biologic” therapies for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. How do these medicines work? 

Ask an Expert: Diet and arthritis flare-ups

Q: Are there certain foods that can prevent arthritis flare-ups? And is it true that eating vegetables like tomatoes and potatoes can actually aggravate arthritis?

Ask an Expert: Glucosamine and chondroitin

Q: Can glucosamine and chondroitin prevent joint cartilage from wearing down?

Ask an Expert: Knuckle cracking and arthritis

Q: Does cracking my knuckles increase my risk of arthritis?

Answer from Peter Bonafede, M.D., medical director of the Providence Arthritis Center at Providence Portland Medical Center:

Less pain, more gain: Spring training for people with arthritis

Spring is finally here – at least according to the calendar – and the garden and great outdoors are calling. If you have mild osteoarthritis, don’t let the fear of increasing pain keep you from answering that call – inactivity only makes things worse. Getting outside and gently bending, stretching and moving your body could do you a world of good.

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