Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a condition that occurs when the protective cartilage between bones wears down. Cartilage is a slippery tissue that protects the ends of bones in your joints and allows the joints to move freely and comfortably. As the cartilage wears over time, friction builds during joint movement and bone begins to rub against bone, resulting in pain.
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and affects millions of people around the world.
What causes osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition in that it occurs over time as the general wear and tear of everyday use causes cartilage to deteriorate. Though aging is the primary factor in the development of osteoarthritis, there are a number of other factors that can accelerate the onset of the condition. They include:
- Gender – Women are more likely than men to develop osteoarthritis
- Weight – Extra body weight adds increased stress to many joints, while fat tissues create proteins that can cause inflammation in the joints
- Injury – Traumas that result from accidents or playing sports can increase the risk of osteoarthritis
- Overuse – If you partake in prolonged physical activity on a regular basis, you may be at increased risk of developing osteoarthritis
- Genetics – Some people are born with an inherent risk of developing osteoarthritis
What are symptoms of osteoarthritis?
Common symptoms of osteoarthritis include:
- Pain in the affected area, particularly during movement
- Joint stiffness
- Tenderness to touch
- Reduced mobility and flexibility
- Swelling
- Development of bones spurs around the affected joint
These symptoms often develop slowly and get more severe over time.
How is osteoarthritis treated?
There is no way to cure or reverse osteoarthritis, but there are treatments that can help reduce the pain.
Some home remedies include over-the-counter pain medication and gentle exercises like swimming or walking.
If these home remedies do not provide adequate relief, Twin Cities Pain Clinic offers a variety of treatments to manage pain caused by osteoarthritis.
- Physical Therapy
- Medical cannabis certification
- Medication management
- Joint injections
- Genicular nerve ablation
- SPRINT® peripheral nerve stimulation
- Peripheral nerve stimulation
Schedule an appointment with Twin Cities Pain Clinic to learn how we can help relieve your osteoarthritis pain.
RELIEVE YOUR PAIN, RENEW YOUR LIFE!
