Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common joint disorder and the most common type of arthritis. Unfortunately, it affects millions worldwide, especially those over 50 years old. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and sometimes disability in the affected joints. While it's a chronic condition with no cure, with timely detection, you can significantly manage osteoarthritis with appropriate Treatment for Osteoarthritis Near Me.
What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?
The common symptoms of osteoarthritis are:
Persistent joint pain, especially after activity or towards the end of the day
Stiffness in your joints, especially after rest or in the morning.
Visible swelling or tenderness around the joints.
Difficulty moving a joint through its full range of motion.
A sensation of bone rubbing against bone, known as crepitus, when moving the joint.
How can I be sure it's osteoarthritis?
There are medical conditions that are similar to osteoarthritis (OA), and only your doctor can be sure of the symptoms caused by OA and not any other condition. Thus, it's extremely crucial to get a diagnosis from your doctor to choose the right Osteopathic Treatment Near Me options.
If you notice these signs or your osteoarthritis, it means your OA is getting worse.
You notice bony spurs or bumps on your joints.
Your joints start to look deformed or out of line.
Your joints lock or buckle when you use them.
You hear it crack, pop, or grind when you move it.
If you notice any of these symptoms, then seek immediate medical help to get an appropriate management plan.
What are the treatment options for osteoarthritis?
Medication:
The first step your doctor will take is to give you over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers to manage pain and inflammation. Acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, duloxetine, and capsaicin cream. Your doctor will recommend the medication, depending on the severity of the pain.
Therapy
There are three types of therapy that your doctor will recommend, depending on the severity of the condition.
Physical therapy
A physical therapist will help you perform the exercise to strengthen the muscles around the joints, increase your flexibility, and reduce pain. Gentle exercises, such as swimming or walking, can be equally effective. You can also take Massage Therapy Kitchener services to strengthen the muscles.
Occupational therapy
An occupational therapist lets you discover ways to do everyday tasks without putting extra stress on already painful joints.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
This uses a low-voltage electric current to relieve pain. TENS is recommended to provide short-term relief for some people with knee and hip osteoarthritis.
Surgery
In severe cases where conservative treatments fail, surgical options such as joint replacement or joint realignment surgery may be considered. Though most people do not require surgery for osteoarthritis, the doctor might recommend it if you experience severe symptoms or if other treatments are not working for you.
Assistive Devices
Using devices like braces, splints, or orthotics can help support and stabilize joints, reducing pain and improving function. It helps relieve stress on your joints. A cane or walker takes weight off your knee or hip as you walk.
Lifestyle changed
Lifestyle modifications such as doing exercises recommended by the Physiotherapy Kitchener practitioners and losing weight in case you are obese are some of the lifestyle modifications that you need to make to make your treatment work.
Conclusion
Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial in managing osteoarthritis (OA). Recognizing symptoms like joint pain, stiffness, and swelling prompts timely medical intervention. From medication and therapy to surgery in severe cases, seeking treatment ensures effective management and an improved quality of life for those affected by OA.