Osteoarthritis

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a common type of arthritis. It affects the cartilage that cushions bones within your joints and commonly affects your hands, knees, hips, spine, and other joints. Treatment with the Northeast Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine team can help you manage unpleasant symptoms and reduce the risk of further joint damage. 

What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?

Common symptoms associated with osteoarthritis include:

• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Pain
• Tenderness
• Decreased range of motion
• Reduced flexibility
• Limited mobility 

Because osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition, it tends to worsen over time when left untreated. It can result in ongoing pain, sleep disturbances, depression, and a poor quality of life.

What are the risk factors for osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis occurs with gradual cartilage deterioration. Risk factors for developing this common condition include:

• Older age
• Family history of osteoarthritis 
• Being a woman
• Obesity
• Previous joint injuries
• Bone deformities
• Repeated joint stress
• Diabetes 
• Hemochromatosis (excess iron)

You might injure your joints playing sports or being in an accident, which puts you at greater risk of developing future osteoarthritis and other joint problems. 

How does my doctor diagnose osteoarthritis?

To find out if you have osteoarthritis, the Northeast Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine team reviews your symptoms and medical history. They check your vital signs, complete a physical exam, and order blood tests. You might need a joint fluid analysis, X-rays, or MRIs to help your specialist make a final diagnosis and develop an effective treatment plan. 

How is osteoarthritis treated?

Based on your personalized needs, lifestyle, and preferences, Northeast Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine providers could recommend one or more of the following osteoarthritis treatments:

• Rest
• Heat or cold packs
• Braces 
• Shoe inserts 
• Tai chi or yoga
• Regular exercise
• Weight loss
• Dietary supplements
• Medications
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Cortisone injections
• Lubricating injections
• Stem cell or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
• Electrical nerve stimulation 
• Surgical joint repair
• Joint replacement surgery

You always have a voice in your treatment plan, and your provider tailors it to give you the best outcome. They can make changes to your osteoarthritis treatment if necessary to provide long-lasting relief.

To find out if you have osteoarthritis or get treated for it, call the nearest Northeast Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine office, or schedule an appointment online today.