Osteoarthritis Specialist in Chicago, IL
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition that occurs when cartilage—the protective tissue that cushions joints—begins to break down. Patients with osteoarthritis experience stiffness and reduced mobility, which affects their everyday activities. Commonly associated with aging, osteoarthritis can develop from repetitive movements, injuries, or excessive body weight, accelerating wear and tear.
What are the Symptoms of Osteoarthritis?
The symptoms of osteoarthritis vary depending on the affected joints but often include persistent pain, stiffness, and a reduced range of motion. For spinal osteoarthritis, common signs include low back pain that may radiate to the pelvis, buttocks, or thighs. Cervical osteoarthritis in the neck often causes discomfort that extends to the shoulders and shoulder blades. Many patients experience stiffness in the morning or late evening and tingling or numbness around the spine. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, our team at Suburban Orthopaedics can provide a comprehensive evaluation to determine the best course of treatment.
What Causes Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis typically develops from natural wear and tear over time, but several factors can contribute to its progression. Repetitive movements, sports injuries, and occupational strains can accelerate joint deterioration. Additionally, excess weight places added stress on joints, hastening cartilage breakdown. Over time, these factors may lead to inflammation, bone spurs, and nerve compression, resulting in chronic pain and stiffness. Understanding the root cause of osteoarthritis is essential for effective treatment, and Suburban Orthopaedics is here to help identify and address these factors.
Is There Treatment for Osteoarthritis?
Managing osteoarthritis involves several approaches tailored to the severity of symptoms and affected joints.
Lifestyle Modifications
The first step often includes lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on weight-bearing joints like the hips and knees. Low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, and walking can improve joint flexibility and overall health. Modifying daily activities to minimize joint stress is also essential.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is crucial in treating osteoarthritis; our therapists work with osteoarthritis patients to develop personalized exercise plans to enhance strength, range of motion, and stability while minimizing pain.
Medications
Medications like acetaminophen can help relieve mild discomfort, while NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen and naproxen) reduce pain and inflammation. Topical treatments, such as antiinflammatory creams, can provide localized relief.
Assistive Devices and Injections
Assistive devices like braces or canes can support joint stability. For more advanced cases, your orthopedist may recommend injections, including corticosteroids for inflammation and hyaluronic acid for lubrication.
Pain Management and Support
Heat and cold therapy can alleviate stiffness, while mind-body practices such as yoga can aid in coping with chronic pain. Education about the condition empowers patients to participate in their treatment actively, and support groups can provide valuable encouragement. At Suburban Orthopaedics, we offer pain management treatment for osteoarthritis in tandem with other therapies to help you regain a higher quality of life.
Expert Osteoarthritis Treatment at Suburban Orthpaedics
At Suburban Orthopaedic, we can help you regain mobility, reduce pain, and improve your quality of life. Schedule a consultation with our team to develop a personalized treatment plan. Early intervention and proactive management are vital to maintaining a high quality of life with osteoarthritis.
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