Understanding Osteoarthritis
- Posted on: May 15 2017
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Having sore, stiff joints isn’t always indicative of arthritis. But if you are older in age and have noticed that your joints— especially around your knees— are feeling sorer than ever, you may have a condition called “osteoarthritis.” Here at Redwood Orthopaedic Associates, we specialize in treating these sorts of conditions to help ensure that you can live a more healthy and comfortable life. Read on to learn more about osteoarthritis; what it is and how it can be treated.
What Is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease is a condition that is estimated to affect nearly 27 million Americans. As a condition that primarily affects those that are over the age of 60, Osteoarthritis is caused when the cartilage in the joints starts to break down resulting in pain, inflammation, and stiffness. Over time, as osteoarthritis gets worse, the bones and cartilage may start to chip off and float around the joint.
How Can It Be Treated?
There are multiple treatment options that can be used to treat osteoarthritis, but when combined, it’s safe to say that you will get the best results.
Movement
Even though it may sound painful to get out and about and moving around, it’s one of the best things that you can do for your osteoarthritis. The more your joints are moving, the more comfortable you will be. By doing simple activities like going for a small walk every day will receive large joint benefits.
Pain Relievers
To help deal with the pain and swelling, try taking an over-the-counter pain reliever like Ibuprofen. Just make sure to be careful taking this kind of medication every day because it can cause liver damage. Consult with your primary care physician before taking any medication.
Physical Therapy
If your osteoarthritis has started to advance, we recommend that you come into our office for weekly or bi-weekly physical therapy. During your physical therapy sessions, you will work one-on-one with one of our therapists to stretch out your joints and strengthen them at the same time.
Stretching
In addition to stretching while at physical therapy, we encourage our patients to stretch their joints and ligaments both morning and night. By doing simple stretches, you can take the pain and pressure off of your body.
Osteoarthritis can be a very painful and even debilitating condition if it’s left untreated. Luckily, with the help of the doctors at Redwood Orthopaedic Associates, you can reduce your symptoms and get back your way of life once and for all. To learn more about osteoarthritis or any other orthopaedic conditions, contact Redwood Orthopaedic Associates today!
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