Arthritis

Arthritis affects over 54 million American adults and is a leading cause of disability.  There are many types including degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis) and inflammatory.  Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. As cartilage wears away, bone rubs against bone, causing pain, swelling and stiffness. Risk factors include excess weight, family history, age and previous injury.

Possible treatment options include:​

​

• Using hot and cold therapies

• Regular physical activity with possible modifications

• Maintaining a healthy weight 

• Strengthening the muscles around the joint for added support

• Using assistive devices 

• Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medicines

• Avoiding excessive repetitive movements

• If more severe, there are several injections to help including steroids, viscosupplementation, platelet rich plasma, and other biologics

• In cases where the above measures do not help, surgery is a consideration

​