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Treatment for Osteoarthritis Joint Pain

Osteoarthritis

Just because osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis in the world doesn’t mean it isn’t serious. When the cartilage between your joints begins to wear down, even the most basic movements can become extremely difficult and painful, keeping you in your seat and damaging your overall quality of life.

At Southland Rheumatology Center, our board-certified, highly experienced team of rheumatologists can provide you with patient-first treatment for your osteoarthritis symptoms. Combining a passion for cutting-edge therapies with a promise to provide conservative treatments that work for you, we’ll deliver the most up-to-date, minimally-invasive alternative therapy for osteoarthritis available. We promise to listen to you thoroughly and help you develop a treatment plan that suits your individual needs.

You deserve relief for your osteoarthritis, and now is the time to receive it from a team that truly cares. Reach out to Southland Rheumatology Center and schedule your first appointment with us today.

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Joint PainTreatment Across the South Suburbs of Chicago

Osteoarthritis Treatment Options

Osteoarthritis is a disease that affects the joints, and it primarily causes the cartilage that exists between your bones and the joints themselves to wear down. This results in serious inflammation in the affected bones, initiating a vicious cycle wherein your joints become more stressed and break down further. Ultimately, the bone underneath the affected joint can fail. 

Osteoarthritis is typically found in the joints of the hands, hips, knees, and spine. The most common symptoms include the following:

  • Severe pain in the joints
  • Joint stiffness
  • Swollen, knobby joints
  • A loss of function in the affected joint
  • A grinding or cracking sound in the joints

Osteoarthritis usually affects older adults, and it can coincide with other types of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis and gout.

Find Relief Fast with Southland Rheumatology 

Personalized Treatment Plans for Osteoarthritis

Treating osteoarthritis mostly comes down to managing your symptoms of pain, discomfort, and loss of mobility. Certain treatment options can help you to restore the function of your affected joint, including the following:

  • Oral and topical medications for pain and inflammation relief
  • Weight loss and exercise to remove pressure on your joints
  • Duloxetine, an oral medication approved for treating osteoarthritis
  • Corticosteroid joint injections for osteoarthritis 

In some severe cases where significant damage has been done, surgical replacement of the affected joint may become necessary. Dr. Nayak and her team will work closely with you and listen to you to determine the best course of action to treat you based on your individual needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between rheumatoid arthritis vs osteoarthritis?

While rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis both affect your joints, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder with roots in your immune system, while osteoarthritis is primarily about the degeneration of your joints themselves.

Who is most at risk for osteoarthritis?

Middle-aged and older adults are at a particularly high risk for osteoarthritis, especially if they are overweight.

Will I need physical therapy for osteoarthritis?

Absolutely, especially if you’ve received surgical intervention. Physical therapy is not optional -- it’s an absolutely essential part of your recovery from your osteoarthritis, as much as any other part of your treatment plan. Our physical therapist is here to collaborate with your rheumatologist and offer you tailor-made care at every step of the way.

How do I get started with the best osteoarthritis specialist near me?

At Southland Rheumatology Center, we make it as simple as possible for you to get back to living your life the way you love to live it. Just use our online scheduling tool to make your appointment, and please feel free to call us with any questions you have prior to your visit. We’re here to help.