Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis also is known as degenerative arthritis is the most common joint disorder. Osteoarthritis is caused by the gradual wear and tear on a joint, leading to the loss of cartilage. As we age, the repetitive use of the joints causes joint pain, swelling, and inflammation. Obesity also plays a role in putting extra weight and stress on joints. Patients with severe osteoarthritis have lost the cartilage between the bones, resulting in inflammation, constant pain and limited range of motion. Chronic inflammation can stimulate the bones to grow outgrowths, or spurs, around the joints, causing additional pain.
Diagnosis Osteoarthritis
X-rays and arthrocentesis help in diagnosing osteoarthritis. X-rays can show the loss of the joint cartilage and narrowing between bones. Arthrocentesis is a procedure in which fluid is drawn from a joint and then is analyzed. With arthrocentesis, steroids or a lubricant such as Synvisc can be injected into the joint to help relieve inflammation and pain.
Treatment
There is not one definitive treatment for osteoarthritis. We recommend the following to help relieve the symptoms:
- Weight Reduction
- Exercise (swimming and walking are good options)
- Physical Therapy
- Pain Relievers (antiinflammatories and acetaminophen)
- Pain-relieving creams such as Voltaren gel
- Cortisone Injections
Hyaluronic Acid injections such as Synvisc, Euflexxa or Hyalgan. Once injected into the knee joint it works to cushion and lubricate the joint, easing the pain
Joint replacement surgery is the last option for patients with osteoarthritis. It is recommended when the osteoarthritis is debilitating or not responding to conventional treatments.
