Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of pain and disability, especially among older adults. Although the symptoms can be painful, the majority of patients are able to lead a normal life with osteoarthritis treatment. Below, we will take a look at what you can expect in terms of treatment for this condition.
Understanding Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the degeneration and inflammation of a joint. In this condition, the cartilage on the joint’s surfaces break down; it may expose the bone, and the bone may begin to break down as well. The amount of fluid in the joint decreases, especially in larger joints like the knee. The surfaces of the joint rub against one another instead of sliding smoothly past, and inflammation occurs.
Osteoarthritis can happen to any joint in the body, no matter how large or small. The hips, knees, and hands are some common locations for osteoarthritis to develop. You may have osteoarthritis in just one joint, or in many joints throughout the body.
The Approach to Osteoarthritis Treatment
Osteoarthritis treatment is approached with the goal of using the least invasive treatment that is likely to be effective. Most of the time, non-surgical treatments are effective at relieving symptoms. Your doctor will most likely tart you out on non-surgical methods and evaluate your response to those treatments. If you continue to have symptoms, the doctor may recommend other treatments. If necessary, surgery may be considered.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Some of the mot common and effective forms of non-surgical osteoarthritis treatment include:
- Weight loss – If you are obese, losing weight places less stress and pressure on the joint, and symptoms can be reduced. Losing as little as 10 percent of your body weight can make a big difference.
- Smoking cessation – Smoking contributes to inflammation throughout the body, so it is recommended that you stop smoking if you have osteoarthritis.
- Physical therapy – Physical therapy strengthens the muscles that support the joint and improves flexibility. The exercises taught at physical therapy should be performed at home during and after treatment.
- Regular exercise and stretching – Regularly using the exercise you learned in physical therapy can help you control symptoms. In most cases, twice a day is ideal.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – NSAIDs like Aleve relieve inflammation, thus reducing symptoms. You should not take an NSAID for longer than a few days without talking to your doctor first.
Surgical Osteoarthritis Treatment
If non-surgical methods are not effective, surgery may be necessary. The goal of osteoarthritis surgery is to replace the damaged joint surfaces. For example, during knee replacement, the damaged bone and cartilage are removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Surgical treatment is invasive, but it is effective in most cases. Your doctor will only recommend surgery if he or she believes that the benefits of surgery outweigh the risks.
Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about treatment for your painful osteoarthritis. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.