Transforming Osteoarthritis Management

At The Skin and Cancer Institute, we are dedicated to reshaping the way Osteoarthritis is understood and managed. We believe that with the right knowledge, support, and care, you can embark on a journey towards a life with reduced pain, improved mobility, and enhanced well-being.

What Is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis (OA), often referred to as “wear and tear” arthritis, is a common degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people worldwide. This chronic condition occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time. As a result, the bones rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and limited joint movement. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint but commonly occurs in the knees, hips, hands, and spine.

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

The symptoms of Osteoarthritis can vary from person to person and depend on the affected joints. Common signs and symptoms include:

1. Joint Pain: Persistent pain in the affected joint during or after movement is a primary symptom of Osteoarthritis.
   
2. Stiffness: You may experience stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity, which typically improves with movement.
   
3. Reduced Range of Motion: Osteoarthritis can limit your ability to move the affected joint fully and comfortably.
   
4. Grating Sensation: A grating or crackling sensation (crepitus) may occur when moving the joint.
   
5. Swelling: Swelling may develop around the affected joint due to inflammation.
   
6. Bony Spurs: Over time, bony growths (bone spurs) can form around the joint, causing further pain and limiting movement.

Treatment of Osteoarthritis

While Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition with no cure, several treatment options are available to manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.

1. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription medications, and topical creams can help manage pain and inflammation.
   
2. Lifestyle Modifications: Weight management, exercise, and physical therapy can improve joint function and reduce pain.
   
3. Joint Injections: Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections can provide relief by reducing inflammation and lubricating the joint.
   
4. Assistive Devices: Braces, splints, or walking aids can help support affected joints and improve mobility.
   
5. Surgery: In severe cases, joint replacement surgery may be considered to replace damaged joints with artificial ones.

How We Can Help

At The Skin and Cancer Institute, we are dedicated to supporting you in your journey toward pain-free living. Together, we can manage your Osteoarthritis effectively and help you regain your mobility and overall well-being.

With our expertise, personalized care, pain management solutions, and holistic approach to wellness, we are your partners in transforming your Osteoarthritis management journey into one marked by comfort, mobility, and enhanced well-being. Together, we’ll work towards your optimal quality of life.