What is Osteoarthritis?
Arthritis is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in joints. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis caused by wear and tear on the joints. Due to cartilage loss, pain and stiffness can occur causing difficulty moving and walking.
When the protective surface of the bones in the joint wears away, the bones rub against each other and cause pain and swelling. Osteoarthritis is most common in weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine, but it can occur in any joint.
Causes of Osteoarthritis (OA)
This form of joint inflammation is usually seen as you age because of normal wear-and-tear on your joints that cause your cartilage to degenerate. Your chances of having osteoarthritis are also higher if you have a family member with the condition. It can also occur due to obesity, repeated joint stress, or bone deformities.
Early Osteoarthritis Symptoms Include:
- Swelling
- Bone spurs
- Pain and stiffness
- Loss of flexibility
- Grating sensation
How is Arthritis Diagnosed?
At Texas Joint Pain Management, you will receive a physical assessment, interview, and x-ray images. If further evaluation is required, it will be discussed with you at the initial evaluation.
During the physical exam, our experts will check your affected joint for tenderness, swelling, redness, and flexibility. Further diagnosis will identify if you have asymmetric joint space narrowing, osteophytes at the joint margins, joint space narrowing, and subchondral bone sclerosis
To find the most advanced, minimally invasive treatment procedures for your osteoarthritis, visit Texas Joint Pain Management Clinic and book your online appointments.
Can You Prevent Osteoarthritis?
You can help by decreasing stress on your joints. Below are ways to prevent or slow the effects of osteoarthritis. In addition to traditional therapy, Texas Joint Pain Management also offers opportunities for stem cell or growth factor therapy at a minimal cost.
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Osteoarthritis Prevention Measures
Keep your body weight down
Extra weight puts stress on your joints. This can cause pain in your knees, ankles, and feet. If you are overweight, we can discuss safe ways to lose weight.
Control your blood sugar
High blood sugar levels raise your risk of getting osteoarthritis. If you have diabetes, get your blood sugar levels checked regularly. Talk with your primary care provider about ways to manage your blood sugar.
Regular Physical Activity
Exercise or physical therapy is a good way to prevent joint problems. It helps to keep joints from getting stiff. It keeps muscles strong. Our staff will be available to guide you through physical therapy and exercises that will help you maintain a healthy joint.
Listen to your body
If you have joint pain after strenuous activity or exercise, you may have done too much. Rest the joint. Use an ice pack to relieve pain. Remember, listen to your body. If it hurts, damage may have been done.
Consult with our physical therapists to learn the best exercises to protect your joints.
Ice packs and pain medicine directed by your provider before and after you exercise is also important.
