Osteoarthritis is a common condition that affects many people around the world. It happens when the joints wear down over time or face too much stress. This causes the cartilage, which cushions the joints, to break down. The knees, hips, hands, and spine are the most affected areas. People with osteoarthritis often experience pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving.
Finding the right treatment can make life easier and protect the joints in the long run. This article will explain the best treatments for osteoarthritis.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Keeping a healthy weight is important, more so for people with osteoarthritis in joints like the knees and hips. Extra weight puts more pressure on these joints, which can make the problem worse.
Doctors often suggest eating balanced meals and doing regular exercise to manage weight. A Mediterranean diet, which includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, is a good choice. Simple exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling can help you lose weight without putting too much strain on your joints.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a great way to manage osteoarthritis symptoms. A trained physical therapist can help you move better, make the muscles around your joints stronger, and reduce stiffness.
They create special exercise plans to improve flexibility and keep your joints healthy. Gentle exercises like yoga or Pilates are often part of therapy. These exercises help with balance and are easy on the joints. Using light weights or resistance bands can also help build muscle strength.
Pain Medications
Managing pain is an important part of treating osteoarthritis. Many people use over-the-counter medicines to reduce pain and swelling. This includes acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
For more serious pain, doctors might suggest stronger medicines. Tramadol is one example, but it is only used with close monitoring. Always talk to a doctor before starting any medicine, as taking too much can cause problems.
Corticosteroid and Hyaluronic Acid Injections
Injections can help people with moderate to severe osteoarthritis pain.
Corticosteroid injections reduce swelling and ease pain in the joint. However, they should not be used too often, because they can harm the cartilage over time. Hyaluronic acid injections add to the natural fluid in the joint. These are especially helpful for knee osteoarthritis, as they improve joint movement. They also reduce pain and make the joint work more smoothly.
Talk to your orthopedic doctor to see if these injections are right for you.
Assistive Devices
Joint pain and stiffness can make everyday activities harder. Assistive devices like canes, braces, or shoe inserts can help by taking pressure off the joints.
For example, a knee brace gives extra support during activities and reduces stress on the joint. Occupational therapists can also recommend simple changes to make daily tasks easier. This might include using special tools or gadgets designed to reduce strain on your joints.
Surgical Options
If other treatments do not work, surgery might be needed. One common option is joint replacement surgery. It involves replacing a damaged knee or hip with a metal or plastic joint. This can bring back movement and reduce pain.
Another option is arthroscopy, a surgery used to fix small joint problems or reduce swelling. Doctors usually suggest surgery only after trying all other treatments.
Regular Exercise and Stretching
Exercise plays a critical role in managing osteoarthritis. While it may seem counterintuitive to move when your joints hurt, staying active is essential to improve long-term joint health.
Medically approved exercise plans address multiple needs. This includes flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular health. Stretching every day prevents joint stiffness and improves mobility. Dynamic stretching exercises include hamstring stretches, calf stretches, and shoulder rolls. They are common suggestions from physical therapists.
Topical Treatments
For those seeking alternatives to oral medications, topical treatments provide localized relief. Products like capsaicin cream or NSAID gels can be applied directly to the affected areas. These treatments work by numbing pain or reducing inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissues.
Consult your doctor before choosing any topical treatment. Certain skin types may react negatively to these products.
Holistic Therapies
Recent research shows that alternative therapies may benefit osteoarthritis patients. Acupuncture, for instance, has been shown in several studies to decrease pain and improve overall well-being. It involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to balance energy flow and relieve pain. Supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin are popular for maintaining joint cartilage health.
While more research is needed, many patients report improved joint mobility after regular usage. Always consult your physician before starting any supplement regimen.
Build a Support System
Living with osteoarthritis can feel tough, but having support helps a lot. Family, friends, and your doctor can provide care and encouragement. Joining local or online groups for people with osteoarthritis lets you share stories. You can also get advice and find emotional support.
Regular check-ups with your doctor are also important. They can keep track of your condition and update your treatment plan if needed.
Best Treatment for Osteoarthritis in Dover, NJ
There is no one-size-fits-all cure for osteoarthritis. However, a comprehensive treatment plan can notably improve your quality of life. From healthy lifestyle changes to advanced medical treatments, options exist for every stage of this condition.
Are you looking for the best treatment for osteoarthritis? You can trust Orthopedic Associates of West Jersey. Our mission is to guide you to the best possible solution for your unique needs. Schedule an appointment with our experienced orthopedic specialists to discuss personalized treatment options. Call us today at (973) 989-0888 or request a consultation. Together, we can bring you closer to pain-free movement.
The best orthopedic surgeons near you look forward to serving you!
Sources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/5599-osteoarthritis
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoarthritis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351930
