What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a form of arthritis that results from the breakdown and loss of cartilage in the joints. Cartilage is a protein compound that serves as a cushion, absorbing pressure between bones and joints.
As one of the most common types of arthritis, osteoarthritis occurs most commonly in men under the age of 45 and women over the age of 55.
At the Orlando Orthopaedic Center our fellowship trained joint specialists take a comprehensive approach to osteoarthritis treatment. If you or a loved one are suffering from osteoarthritis turn to the experts at the Orlando Orthopaedic Center.
What Are Treatment Options of Osteoarthritis?
There are two classifications of osteoarthritis; primary and secondary. A case is considered to be primary osteoarthritis if the cause is unknown while secondary refers to cases when the cause is apparent. Osteoarthritis generally affects the spine, hands and feet as well as larger joints such as the hips and knees.
For patients suffering from osteoarthritis weight loss and reducing stressful activity on the affected joints are generally suggested to slow degeneration. Topical, oral and injected medications often provide relief from pain. Physical therapy and prescribed exercise are also recommended, in most cases, as they help patients gain strength and reduce stress on the joints. In more severe cases of osteoarthritis surgery is an option. Such surgical procedures include: arthroscopy, joint replacements and osteotomy. Surgery is generally considered only after less invasive treatment methods have been exhausted.
What Are Symptoms of Osteoarthritis?
- Pain in the affected joints
- Pain and stiffness of the joints after inactivity
- Pain with limited motion
- Swelling and warmth in the affected joints
At the Orlando Orthopaedic Center our joint specialists use state of the art techniques to treat patients suffering from osteoarthritis. Whether you are simply in need of physical therapy or a more aggressive surgical approach to osteoarthritis treatment; our specialists are here to help you through every step of the diagnosis, treatment and recovery process. If you interested in learning more about the effective treatment of osteoarthritis, schedule a consultation with one or our specialists today.
