Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, often referred to as “wear and tear” arthritis, is a prevalent form of joint pain. This degenerative joint disease involves the breakdown of cartilage, resulting in joint pain and stiffness. Patients may also experience joint swelling due to the degenerative process and localized inflammation. Commonly affected joints include the knees, hips, hands, feet, back, and neck.

The providers at ASC are experts in managing osteoarthritis. The first step in treatment is accurately diagnosing the type of arthritis. This involves a physical examination and imaging studies such as X-rays or ultrasound. Blood tests are also used to rule out other types of arthritis before developing a treatment plan.

Several oral medications can help manage osteoarthritis symptoms, including acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Mild cases can often be managed by a primary care physician, and topical medications can also be beneficial.
Based on the evaluation, joint injections with corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid might be recommended. Personal measures, such as weight loss for overweight patients and regular stretching and exercise, can significantly help. Additionally, working with physical therapists can