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Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that primarily affects the cartilage, the smooth, slippery tissue that covers the ends of bones in a joint. As the cartilage deteriorates, bones begin to rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. OA is the most common form of arthritis and can affect any joint, though it most frequently impacts the knees, hips, hands, and spine.
Several factors contribute to the development of osteoarthritis, including:
Age: The risk of developing OA increases with age as the cartilage naturally wears down over time.
Genetics: Family history can play a role, as certain genetic markers are associated with an increased risk of OA.
Joint Injuries: Previous injuries, such as fractures or ligament tears, can lead to osteoarthritis later in life.
Obesity: Excess weight puts additional stress on weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and hips, accelerating cartilage breakdown.
Repetitive Stress: Jobs or activities that involve repetitive movements can contribute to joint wear and tear.
Gender: Women are more likely to develop OA, particularly after menopause.
Osteoarthritis symptoms can vary in severity and may include:
Pain: Aching or sharp pain in the affected joint, especially after activity or at the end of the day.
Stiffness: Joint stiffness, particularly after periods of inactivity, such as waking up in the morning.
Swelling: Mild swelling around the joint due to inflammation.
Reduced Range of Motion: Decreased flexibility and difficulty moving the joint through its full range of motion.
Grating Sensation: A feeling of grating or grinding when moving the joint.
Bone Spurs: Extra bits of bone, known as osteophytes, which can form around the affected joint.
Before seeking professional treatment, there are several at-home strategies you can try to manage osteoarthritis symptoms:
Exercise: Engage in low-impact activities such as swimming, walking, or cycling to strengthen muscles around the joint and improve flexibility.
Weight Management: Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on weight-bearing joints.
Heat and Cold Therapy: Apply heat to relax muscles and increase blood flow, or use cold packs to reduce inflammation and numb pain.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain and inflammation.
Supportive Devices: Use braces, shoe inserts, or canes to support the joint and reduce stress.
Dietary Supplements: Some people find relief with supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin, though their effectiveness can vary.
When at-home treatments are not sufficient, several medical options can help manage osteoarthritis symptoms:
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, or hyaluronic acid injections, can provide more effective pain relief.
Minimally Invasive Procedures: Techniques such as joint injections or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy can reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgical options like joint replacement or arthroscopy may be necessary to repair or replace damaged joints
At Frontier Physical Medicine, we prioritize patient care and utilize a proprietary, individualized approach to treat osteoarthritis without relying on heavy drugs or surgery. Our process includes:
Comprehensive Evaluation: We start with a thorough assessment of your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle to understand the full scope of your condition.
Personalized Treatment Plan: Based on the evaluation, we develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Minimally Invasive Procedures: Our clinic specializes in advanced, minimally invasive treatments such as joint injections and PRP therapy to reduce pain and promote healing.
Physical Therapy: Our skilled physical therapists work with you to create a targeted exercise program to strengthen muscles, improve joint function, and reduce pain.
Ongoing Support: We provide continuous support and adjustments to your treatment plan as needed to ensure optimal outcomes and long-term relief.
Frontier Physical Medicine, with locations in Tampa and Clearwater, is dedicated to helping patients manage osteoarthritis and other chronic joint conditions. Our innovative approach prioritizes patient care and offers a range of services designed to provide effective pain relief and improve quality of life.
For more information, visit Frontier Physical Medicine.
An Innovative Medical Facility That Uses Minimally Invasive Procedures To Treat A Variety Of Conditions.
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