What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a joint condition characterized by damage or loss of cartilage, connective tissue cushions, and supporting bones. It is the most common type of arthritis and often develops in the spine, hips, knees, and hands.
Causes of Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis can be caused by several factors, including:
- Aging
- Overuse of joints in an occupation or activity
- An injury to a joint
- A previous surgery
- Carrying excess weight,
- Genetics
Signs and Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
You may have osteoarthritis if you are experiencing:
- Chronic pain in a joint
- Joint stiffness
- Loss of flexibility in a joint
- A sensation of the joint moving involuntarily
Diagnosis and Treatment of Osteoarthritis
Diagnosis of osteoarthritis begins with imaging studies, which can show the degree of damage in joints and bones. Osteoarthritis has no cure, but there are several treatments available to help control pain and manage symptoms. Professional treatments for osteoarthritis include:
- Prescription anti-inflammatory medication
- Corticosteroid injections into the affected joint
- Thermal therapy to reduce swelling, boost circulation, and reduce pain
- Ultrasound treatment to reduce swelling and stiffness
- Physical therapy to regain flexibility and mobility
- Assistive devices to help maintain mobility
- Cryoneurolysis (Iovera)
- Genicular nerve thermal ablation
- Platelet rich plasma (PRP)
What You Can Do to Minimize Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce joint stress and pain. You should also:
- Exercise regularly with low-impact activities like swimming and walking
- Stretch daily to help keep you flexible and ease joint stress
- Eat a healthy diet of nutrient-dense foods, and avoid inflammatory foods in your diet
Want To Know More About Osteoarthritis?
Talk with the experts to learn more about the causes, signs, symptoms, and treatment of osteoarthritis and how your spine specialist can help. Call Dr. Benjamin McCurdy and Dr. Daniel Thomas at Athens Spine Center in Athens, GA. You can reach them in any of their four locations on King Avenue, Timothy Road, Greensboro, or at the Athens Spine Procedural Center by calling (706) 425-2400, so call today.