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Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, the protective tissue at the ends of bones. Over time, this wear and tear result in pain, swelling, and decreased joint mobility. OA most commonly affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine, making everyday tasks challenging and sometimes painful.
Several factors contribute to the development of osteoarthritis, including:
Age: The risk of OA increases with age as the body’s ability to repair joint tissues diminishes.
Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis can predispose individuals to the condition.
Joint Injuries: Previous joint injuries, often from sports or accidents, can increase the likelihood of developing OA.
Obesity: Excess weight puts additional stress on weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and hips.
Repetitive Stress: Jobs or activities that place repetitive stress on specific joints can lead to the development of OA.
Gender: Women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis, particularly after menopause.
The symptoms of osteoarthritis 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 in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
Swelling: Swelling around the affected joint due to inflammation.
Tenderness: Tenderness when applying light pressure to the joint.
Loss of Flexibility: Reduced range of motion in the affected joint.
Grating Sensation: Feeling or hearing a grating sensation when using the joint.
Bone Spurs: Extra bits of bone, which feel like hard lumps, may form around the affected joint
Before seeking professional treatment, there are several home remedies and lifestyle changes that can help manage the symptoms of osteoarthritis:
Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce stress on weight-bearing joints.
Exercise: Regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or biking, can strengthen muscles around the joints and improve flexibility.
Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to the affected joints can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Non-prescription medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation.
Supportive Devices: Using braces, shoe inserts, or canes can help alleviate stress on joints.
Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, can help reduce inflammation.
When home remedies are not sufficient to manage osteoarthritis symptoms, several medical treatments can provide relief. Frontier Physical Medicine in Madeira Beach, FL, offers various treatment options tailored to individual needs:
Physical Therapy: Customized physical therapy programs can strengthen muscles around the joints, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.
Medications: Prescription medications, including stronger pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs, can be used to manage symptoms.
Injections: Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation.
Minimally Invasive Procedures: At Frontier Physical Medicine, we specialize in minimally invasive procedures that target pain without the need for heavy drugs or surgery.
Regenerative Medicine: Treatments such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy and stem cell therapy can promote healing and reduce inflammation in the affected joints.
At Frontier Physical Medicine, we prioritize patient care and offer a proprietary, individualized approach to treating osteoarthritis. Our process includes:
Comprehensive Evaluation: Our team conducts a thorough assessment of your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle to develop a personalized treatment plan.
Diagnostic Imaging: We use advanced imaging techniques, such as X-rays and MRI, to accurately diagnose the extent of joint damage.
Customized Treatment Plan: Based on the evaluation and diagnostic results, we create a tailored treatment plan that may include physical therapy, medications, injections, or regenerative medicine.
Minimally Invasive Procedures: Our clinic specializes in minimally invasive treatments designed to reduce pain and improve joint function without the need for surgery.
Ongoing Support: We provide continuous support and follow-up care to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment plan and make necessary adjustments.
Frontier Physical Medicine is dedicated to helping patients in Madeira Beach, FL, manage osteoarthritis and improve their quality of life. Our individualized approach ensures that each patient receives the best possible care tailored to their unique needs.
For more information about our services and to explore treatment options for osteoarthritis, visit Frontier Physical Medicine.
An Innovative Medical Facility That Uses Minimally Invasive Procedures To Treat A Variety Of Conditions.
