Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition that affects the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It is the most common form of arthritis and occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time. This degenerative joint disease can affect any joint in the body but is most commonly found in the knees, hips, hands, and spine. At Frontier Physical Medicine, we understand the debilitating effects of osteoarthritis and are dedicated to providing effective, minimally invasive treatments to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Osteoarthritis develops when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in your joints deteriorates over time. While the exact cause is not always clear, several risk factors can contribute to the development of osteoarthritis:
Age: The risk of osteoarthritis increases with age.
Joint Injury: Injuries from sports or accidents can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis, even years later.
Obesity: Excess weight puts additional stress on weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and hips.
Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis can increase your risk.
Overuse: Repetitive stress on a joint from a job or sport can lead to the development of osteoarthritis.
Gender: Women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis, especially after menopause.
Understanding these risk factors can help you take preventative measures and seek early treatment if necessary.
Osteoarthritis symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the joints affected. Common symptoms include:
Pain: Joint pain during or after movement.
Stiffness: Joint stiffness, especially after waking up or being inactive.
Tenderness: The joint may feel tender when you apply light pressure.
Loss of Flexibility: Reduced range of motion in the affected joint.
Grating Sensation: You might feel or hear a grating sensation when using the joint.
Bone Spurs: Extra bits of bone, which feel like hard lumps, can form around the affected joint.
Swelling: Inflammation in the soft tissues around the joint.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek professional evaluation and treatment to manage your condition effectively.
Before seeking professional treatment, there are several self-care measures you can try at home to manage osteoarthritis symptoms:
Exercise: Regular physical activity can help maintain joint function and relieve stiffness. Focus on low-impact exercises like swimming, walking, and cycling.
Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on weight-bearing joints.
Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation.
Assistive Devices: Using braces, shoe inserts, or canes can help reduce stress on your joints.
Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can support overall joint health.
These measures can provide temporary relief, but if your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to seek professional medical advice.
At Frontier Physical Medicine, we follow a comprehensive process to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients with osteoarthritis:
Initial Consultation: During your first visit, our medical team will conduct a thorough evaluation, including a detailed medical history and physical examination.
Diagnostic Testing: We may use diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or MRI, to assess the extent of joint damage and confirm the diagnosis.
Personalized Treatment Plan: Based on your evaluation and test results, we will develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Treatment Implementation: Our team will guide you through your treatment plan, which may include physical therapy, injections, or other minimally invasive procedures.
Ongoing Support and Monitoring: We provide continuous support and monitoring to ensure your treatment is effective and make any necessary adjustments to your plan.
At Frontier Physical Medicine, we are committed to helping you manage osteoarthritis and improve your quality of life. Our innovative, minimally invasive treatments offer a safe and effective alternative to traditional methods, allowing you to achieve lasting relief without the need for heavy drugs or surgery.
For more information on our osteoarthritis treatments and to schedule an appointment, please visit our website at Frontier Physical Medicine.
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