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Injections of cortisone mixed with an anesthetic directly into the joint can often reduce pain and restore function Osteoarthritis is the most common form of the over 100 kinds of arthritis. Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease or "wear and tear" arthritis, affects more than 20 million Americans, and is more common as we age. Osteoarthritis results when the protective cushion of cartilage covering the ends of the bones breaks down and wears away, causing irritation, stiffness and pain. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint, but is most common in the hands, spine, and especially the large weight bearing joints - the knees and hips. For those in Colorado and Denver seeking osteoarthritis treatment will find OrthoColorado doctors highly experienced and able to provide individual osteoarthritis treatment for your specific level of disease.
What Causes Osteoarthritis? In most cases, the exact cause of osteoarthritis is unknown, and is referred to as "primary osteoarthritis." Primary osteoarthritis is related to aging and wear and tear. With aging, the water content of the cartilage increases, while its protein structure deteriorates. The cartilage may then become flaky and covered with tiny cracks. In advanced cases, the entire cushion of cartilage is lost, resulting in painful bone-on-bone contact. When the cause of osteoarthritis is known, it is called "secondary osteoarthritis." Conditions and diseases that can lead to secondary osteoarthritis include obesity, trauma, diabetes, gout, and congenital joint defects. With either primary or secondary osteoarthritis, the symptoms are the same. As the cartilage wears away, the nerves become irritated. Pain can range from mild to severe. Othe symptoms include morning stiffness, a loss of easy movement, and heat and swelling of the affected joint.
How is Osteoarthritis Diagnosed? There is no blood test for osteoarthritis. However, blood tests may be ordered to rule out some of the conditions that may cause secondary osteoarthritis, or the other types of arthritis that mimic osteoarthritis symptoms. In some cases, an arthrocentesis is performed. With arthrocentesis, a sterile needle is used to remove some joint fluid which is then analyzed to confirm or rule out joint infection, gout, or other conditions. Once other problems have been ruled out, a simple xray and an examination by an orthopedic specialist will confirm the diagnosis of osteoarthritis, and more importantly, its severity. When osteoarthritis is present in a weight bearing joint (hip or knee) the xrays will show a narrowing of the space between the joint, confirming the loss of protective cartilage.
How is Osteoarthritis Treated? While there are no cures for arthritis, the past few years have seen dramatic new ways to manage the pain, lack of mobility, and fatigue that are among its most disabling symptoms. Specific treatment for those seeking osteoarthritis treatment in the Denver area will be determined by you and your physician based on:
Whatever course you and your doctor decide, the goals of treatment are the same: to reduce joint pain and stiffness, and improve joint movement. Treatment may include:
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