OsteoarthritisAbout Osteoarthritis

One of the most common forms of arthritis –osteoarthritis is a spinal condition that affects almost millions of people around the world. This spinal condition occurs when the cartilage covering the ends of the bones wear down with time and age. Also known as wear and tear arthritis, this condition can affect and damage any joint of the body. However, neck, lower back and knees are the most commonly affected areas of the body. This is why osteoarthritis can cause the patient severe back pain.

Signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis

The symptoms of osteoarthritis are not glaringly obvious in the beginning and they develop and get worse with time. These symptoms include:

  • The patient may suffer from pain in the affected joint during or after movement
  • The joint may also feel tender to touch
  • The joints feel stiff especially when the patient wakes up in the morning
  • Loss of range of motion and flexibility in the joints
  • The affected joint area is surrounded by bits of bones that feel like hard lumps and are called bone spurs.

Treating osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a progressive condition and therefore does not have a cure. However, non-surgical treatment options can go a long way in limiting the progress as well relieving the pain caused by this disorder. These non-surgical treatment options include:

  • Medications –including acetaminophen, NSAIDs, narcotics and muscle relaxants
  • Therapy – includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, braces and exercise programs

Surgery

The two most common surgical procedures used for osteoarthritis are:

Osteotomy– realigning the leg by cutting across either above or below the knee

Arthroplasty – joint replacement surgery where the damaged joint is removed and replaced with prostheses.

Let us help you make the right decision for your spine. All you need to do is fill the form given above or give us a call at (888) 779-8716 today.