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Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that primarily affects the cartilage, the smooth tissue that covers the ends of bones in a joint. Over time, this cartilage breaks down, causing pain, swelling, and reduced motion in the affected joints. As the condition progresses, bones may start to rub against each other, leading to further pain and joint damage. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and typically affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine.
Osteoarthritis is often considered a wear-and-tear condition, but several factors can contribute to its development:
Age: The risk of osteoarthritis increases with age.
Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis can increase your risk.
Joint Injuries: Injuries from sports, accidents, or repetitive use can contribute to the onset of osteoarthritis.
Obesity: Excess weight puts additional stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.
Bone Deformities: Some people are born with malformed joints or defective cartilage, which can lead to osteoarthritis.
Other Diseases: Conditions like diabetes, gout, and rheumatoid arthritis can also increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
The symptoms of osteoarthritis can vary depending on the severity and location of the condition. Common symptoms include:
Pain: Joint pain during or after movement.
Stiffness: Joint stiffness, especially upon waking up or after a period of inactivity.
Tenderness: Discomfort when applying pressure to the affected area.
Loss of Flexibility: Reduced range of motion in the affected joint.
Grating Sensation: A feeling of grating or grinding when using the joint.
Bone Spurs: Extra bits of bone that can form around the affected joint.
Before seeking professional treatment, there are several home remedies and lifestyle changes you can try to manage osteoarthritis symptoms:
Exercise: Low-impact activities like swimming, walking, and cycling can help maintain joint flexibility and strengthen the muscles around the joints.
Weight Management: Losing excess weight can reduce the stress on weight-bearing joints.
Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat can help relax muscles and relieve pain, while cold therapy can reduce inflammation and numb the area.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Medications like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and inflammation.
Assistive Devices: Using braces, splints, or canes can provide additional support and reduce joint strain.
When home remedies are not enough to manage osteoarthritis symptoms, several treatment options are available:
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program to improve joint function and reduce pain.
Medications: Prescription medications, including stronger NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and hyaluronic acid injections, can provide more effective pain relief.
Minimally Invasive Procedures: At Frontier Physical Medicine, we specialize in minimally invasive procedures that target the root cause of joint pain without heavy drugs or surgery.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: This innovative treatment uses the patient’s own blood to promote healing and reduce inflammation in the affected joint.
Stem Cell Therapy: Stem cell therapy can help regenerate damaged cartilage and improve joint function.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgical options like joint replacement or arthroscopy may be necessary.
At Frontier Physical Medicine, we follow a comprehensive and individualized approach to treating osteoarthritis:
Initial Consultation: During your first visit, our team will conduct a thorough assessment, including a medical history review and physical examination, to understand your specific condition and symptoms.
Diagnostic Testing: We may use advanced imaging techniques like X-rays or MRI scans to get a detailed view of the affected joints and determine the extent of the damage.
Personalized Treatment Plan: Based on the assessment and diagnostic results, we will develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs. This plan may include a combination of physical therapy, minimally invasive procedures, and other treatments.
Minimally Invasive Procedures: Our clinic specializes in cutting-edge, minimally invasive treatments like PRP therapy and stem cell therapy. These procedures are designed to promote natural healing and reduce pain without the need for heavy drugs or surgery.
Ongoing Support: We believe in a holistic approach to patient care. Our team will provide ongoing support and follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
Patient Education: We empower our patients with the knowledge and tools they need to manage their condition effectively. This includes guidance on lifestyle changes, exercise routines, and pain management techniques.
At Frontier Physical Medicine, patient care is our top priority. We are committed to helping you achieve a pain-free, active lifestyle through innovative and personalized treatment options. To learn more about our services and how we can help you manage osteoarthritis, visit our website at Frontier Physical Medicine.
An Innovative Medical Facility That Uses Minimally Invasive Procedures To Treat A Variety Of Conditions.
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