Arthritis is a progressive, degenerative disease that can lead to chronic pain and disability if not properly managed. If you have been diagnosed with arthritis in one or more joints, effective arthritis treatment options are essential to maintaining an active lifestyle and reducing pain.
At Northwest Extremity Specialists, our orthopedic doctors provide comprehensive arthritis care, from conservative pain management to total joint replacement surgery, ensuring you receive consistent and specialized care at every stage of your condition.
Effective Treatments for Managing Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions worldwide. This degenerative condition can be caused by:
- Aging and wear-and-tear
- Previous joint injuries
- Obesity and excess joint stress
- Genetic factors
Fortunately, several non-surgical treatments can help relieve pain and improve mobility:
Medications
Your doctor may recommend:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Corticosteroids for targeted pain relief in severe cases.
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to slow joint degeneration.
According to the Mayo Clinic, these medications can help manage osteoarthritis symptoms and delay the need for surgery.
Physical Therapy
Working with a physical therapist specializing in arthritis can improve joint function through:
- Range-of-motion exercises to enhance flexibility.
- Strengthening exercises to support weakened joints.
- Low-impact activities, such as swimming or cycling, reduce joint stress.
The Arthritis Foundation recommends regular exercise as one of the most effective ways to reduce arthritis pain and stiffness.
Assistive Devices
Certain devices can help maintain mobility and reduce joint stress:
- Custom orthotics or braces for joint stabilization.
- Canes or crutches to decrease weight-bearing pressure.
Lifestyle Modifications
Small lifestyle changes can make a big difference in arthritis management:
- Losing weight reduces stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.
- Following a low-fat, low-sodium diet to reduce inflammation and promote joint health.
These conservative treatments can help delay or prevent surgery, but if the joint cartilage has worn away completely, joint replacement surgery may be necessary.
Total Joint Replacement Surgery for Arthritis
If non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief, total joint replacement surgery may be recommended. This procedure removes the damaged joint and replaces it with a prosthetic joint made of metal, plastic, or ceramic components.
What to Expect from Total Joint Replacement Surgery
- Performed under general anesthesia
- Hospital stay of a few days for monitoring and pain management
- Gradual recovery through physical therapy
Post-Surgery Recovery Guidelines
To ensure a successful recovery, follow these essential steps:
- Take prescribed medications and watch for signs of infection at the incision site.
- Follow a physical therapy program to restore mobility and strength.
- Gradually return to normal activities, avoiding high-impact movements until cleared by your doctor.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and quitting smoking if applicable.
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), total joint replacement surgery has a high success rate in reducing pain and restoring mobility, allowing patients to return to an active lifestyle.
We Are Your One-Stop Shop for Arthritis Care
At Northwest Extremity Specialists, we provide both podiatry and orthopedic care, making us the ideal provider for comprehensive arthritis treatment. Unlike fragmented care from multiple providers, we offer conservative, moderate, and surgical solutions all under one roof.
Looking for New Arthritis Treatment Options? Contact Us Today
If arthritis pain limits mobility and quality of life, you don’t have to suffer in silence. Our skilled orthopedic surgeons offer customized treatment plans to help you regain function and live pain-free.
Contact your nearest Northwest Extremity Specialists office today to schedule an appointment and explore the best arthritis treatment options for you.
