Osteoarthritis Treatment
At Millennium Physicians, we deliver personalized care plans tailored to meet the specific needs of individuals suffering from osteoarthritis. Our approach focuses on enhancing the quality of life for our patients through precise and compassionate care.
Understanding the pivotal role of accurate diagnosis in effectively managing osteoarthritis, our state-of-the-art facilities are equipped with advanced technology, and our team of medical experts is committed to providing detailed assessments. We create treatment plans that are customized to address the individual challenges faced by each patient, ensuring a comprehensive management strategy.
Choosing Millennium Physicians means entering a supportive and caring environment where every aspect of your treatment is handled with utmost sensitivity and professionalism. Our dedicated team will be with you at every step, ensuring your comfort and keeping you informed, allowing you to make the best decisions about your health care.
Experience the difference with Millennium Physicians' osteoarthritis management. Rely on our expert knowledge and innovative technology for superior care and optimal health outcomes. Take control of your osteoarthritis by trusting Millennium Physicians with your care.
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis, commonly known as degenerative joint disease, is the most prevalent form of arthritis affecting millions worldwide. This chronic condition is characterized by the breakdown of cartilage—the cushioning material at the end of bones in joints. As the cartilage deteriorates, bones begin to rub against each other, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty in movement. Osteoarthritis most frequently impacts the hands, knees, hips, and spine but can affect any joint in the body.
What Causes Osteoarthritis?
The causes of osteoarthritis include a combination of genetic, metabolic, biochemical, and biomechanical factors with contributions from previous joint injuries and repetitive usage. Age is the strongest predictor of osteoarthritis, as the risk increases significantly as people grow older. Other risk factors include obesity, which puts extra stress on weight-bearing joints, and certain occupations that require repetitive movements, which can lead to joint stress.
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
The symptoms of osteoarthritis develop slowly and worsen over time. Common signs include:
- Persistent or intermittent pain in a joint.
- Stiffness after periods of inactivity or right after waking up.
- Swelling or tenderness in one or more joints.
- A feeling of grating or hearing popping or crackling sounds when the joint bends.
- Loss of flexibility, making it difficult to use the joint.
Key Features of Osteoarthritis
- Gradual loss of cartilage: Cartilage acts as a shock absorber for joints and its loss leads to joint pain and stiffness.
- Changes in bone: Bone spurs, or osteophytes, often develop near the affected joints, contributing to pain and potential complications.
- Inflammation of the joint lining: Although not as pronounced as in inflammatory arthritis, some inflammation is common.
- Deterioration of ligaments and tendons: These structures can become more lax, making the joint less stable.
Treatment Options
The management of osteoarthritis is aimed at alleviating symptoms and enhancing joint functionality. Treatment typically involves a combination of medications, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, injections, and possibly surgery. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, as well as prescription medications, are commonly used to reduce pain, alongside topical creams and ointments for localized relief. Physical therapy plays a crucial role, with customized exercise programs designed to strengthen the muscles around the affected joint, increase flexibility, and mitigate pain.
Lifestyle modifications, including weight loss and the use of ergonomic tools, help ease pressure on joints and reduce strain. For more direct symptom relief, corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections can be administered to improve joint movement. In severe cases where other treatments fail to provide adequate relief, surgical options such as joint replacement surgery (arthroplasty) may be considered to restore function and alleviate pain.
Frequently Asked Questions About Osteoarthritis
Currently, there is no cure for osteoarthritis, but symptoms can be managed effectively with the right approach.
7 Convenient Houston Locations
Bellaire
4747 Bellaire Blvd. Ste. 150
Bellaire, TX 77401
Phone: (281) 315-8130
Fax: (281) 315-8131
Hours: Monday – Friday 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Cleveland
314 South San Jacinto Ave
Cleveland, TX 77327
Phone: (936) 571-0508
Fax: (281) 763-2706
Hours: Monday – Friday 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Conroe
506 Medical Center Blvd. Ste. 100
Conroe, TX 77304
Phone: (936)-571-0508
Fax: (281) 763-2706
Hours: Monday – Friday 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Cypress
27700 Northwest Fwy. Ste. 580
Cypress, TX 77433
Phone (346) 345-2400
Fax (346) 345-2401
Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Houston
522 Timberdale Ln.Houston, TX 77090
Phone: (281) 315-8130
Fax: (281) 315-8131
Hours: Monday – Friday 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Huntsville
130 Medical Center Pkwy. Ste. 5
Huntsville, TX 77340
Phone: (936) 571-0508
Fax: (281) 763-2706
Hours: Monday – Friday 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
The Woodlands
9319 Pinecroft Dr. Ste. 100 & 210
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Phone: (346) 345-2400
Fax: (346) 345-2401
Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM