Osteoarthritis Treatment

Osteoarthritis treatment often involves the use of medications to manage pain and inflammation associated with the condition. Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed to alleviate discomfort and improve joint function. Additionally, topical medications like creams or patches containing analgesic or anti-inflammatory agents may be applied directly to the affected area for localized relief. These medications play a crucial role in symptom management, allowing individuals to maintain an active lifestyle and perform daily activities with greater comfort and ease.

Physical therapy is a cornerstone of osteoarthritis treatment, offering a range of interventions aimed at improving joint mobility, strength, and function. Physical therapists develop customized exercise programs tailored to the individual's specific needs and abilities, focusing on stretching, strengthening, and range-of-motion exercises to address areas of weakness and stiffness. Manual therapy techniques such as joint mobilization and soft tissue massage may also be employed to reduce pain and improve joint flexibility. Through regular physical therapy sessions, individuals with osteoarthritis can learn techniques to manage their symptoms effectively, enhance their overall physical well-being, and maintain optimal joint health for the long term.

Assistive devices such as canes, walkers, braces, and orthotic inserts play a valuable role in supporting individuals with osteoarthritis and improving their mobility. Canes and walkers provide stability and balance assistance, reducing the risk of falls and helping individuals navigate uneven terrain or stairs with greater confidence. Braces and orthotic inserts are designed to offload pressure from affected joints, redistribute weight more evenly, and provide support to weakened or unstable joints. By using these assistive devices, individuals with osteoarthritis can minimize pain and discomfort, preserve joint function, and maintain their independence in performing daily activities.

Injections are commonly used in osteoarthritis treatment to provide targeted relief from pain and inflammation in affected joints. Corticosteroid injections deliver powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly into the joint space, reducing swelling and alleviating pain for several weeks to months.

Hyaluronic acid injections, also known as viscosupplementation, aim to restore joint lubrication and cushioning by supplementing the natural synovial fluid within the joint. These injections offer temporary relief from osteoarthritis symptoms, allowing individuals to manage their condition effectively and maintain joint function while exploring other treatment options.

Common hyaluronic acid injections include:

• Durolane
• Synvisc-one
• Gel-one
• Monovisc
• Euflexxa

*Coverage for and availability of these injections is highly variable and dependent on insurance coverage.

In cases where conservative treatments fail to adequately control symptoms or when joint damage is severe, surgical intervention may be recommended as part of osteoarthritis treatment.

Joint replacement surgery, such as total knee replacement, involves removing damaged joint surfaces and replacing them with artificial implants made of metal, plastic, or ceramic materials. This procedure aims to relieve pain, restore joint function, and improve mobility, enabling individuals to regain their quality of life and engage in activities they enjoy.

Arthroscopic surgery may also be performed to repair or remove damaged cartilage or loose fragments within the joint, addressing specific issues contributing to pain and dysfunction. Surgical options are carefully considered based on the individual's overall health, lifestyle, and treatment goals, with the goal of optimizing outcomes and maximizing long-term joint health.