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Osteoarthritis Treatment

We Can Recommend the Right Treatment for Your Needs

Cartilage covers the end of each bone, creating a smooth surface that allows joints to move easily. But that all-important rubbery cartilage can wear away over time, resulting in pain and swelling in the joints. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease caused by the loss of cartilage in the joints, making it painful to move your hands, hips, or knees.

If conventional osteoarthritis treatments such as prescription medications, physical therapy, or injections do not provide relief, our doctors at Orthopaedic Specialists of Austin can perform bone realignment or joint replacement surgery. Our practice, with offices in Cedar Park, Lakeland, and Austin, TX, can recommend the right treatment for your needs.

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Schedule a Consultation

Our doctors treat cases of osteoarthritis with prescription medications, hormone-related therapy, recommended lifestyle changes, and, if necessary, surgery.

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

Common symptoms of osteoarthritis are joint pain and stiffness. Many osteoarthritis patients report pain or discomfort in the hips, knees, or lower back after rising in the morning, being extremely active, or finishing a period of inactivity. Stiff, swollen joints in the hands may make it difficult to grasp and hold objects. Something as simple as opening a cereal box or using a computer mouse may be a challenge. When the lower body aches, walking or lifting objects can be difficult. Everyday activities such driving a car may also be affected. As osteoarthritis progresses, bones may start to degrade. In later stages, the cartilage wears, causing the bones to rub against each other. This results in continued joint damage and chronic pain.


Osteoarthritis is most likely to affect the:

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Hip

With pain in the groin or buttocks

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Knees

With pain inside the knee or thigh and sometimes a scraping sensation when moving the knee

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Spine

With pain in the joints and discs of the neck and lower back

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Fingers

With pain resulting from spurs or growths at the edge of joints

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Feet

With pain in the large joint at the base of the big toe and possible swelling in the ankles and toes

Non-surgical Treatments 

There is no known cure for osteoarthritis. However, a wide range of treatments are available to successfully manage symptoms:

Weight Management

Increased Physical Activity

Stretching

Other Treatments

Weight Management 

To relieve stress on joints

Increased Physical Activity 

To strengthen the muscles around joints

Stretching 

To gently improve flexibility

Other Treatments

Ranging from heat and cold therapies to hydrotherapy and range-of-motion exercises

Medicine

Certain medications are also effective for osteoarthritis pain. These include:

  • Over-the-counter drugs prescribed by a doctor
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), ranging from aspirin and ibuprofen to prescription drugs, to reduce inflammation and pain
  • Corticosteroids, which are anti-inflammatory remedies that can be taken orally or injected directly into a joint

Assistive devices can also help an osteoarthritis patient regain mobility and independence. Scooters, canes, walkers, braces and shoe orthotics are just a few of the devices that patients use to enhance day-to-day living.

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We Are Prepared to Help

There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but there are ways to manage the condition. Contact us online or call (512) 476-2830 to schedule your private consultation.

Causes & Risk Factors

You may be more likely to develop osteoarthritis if you:

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Are Older

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Have Inherited Traits That Cause Osteoarthritis

Such as bones that do not fit together normally or an abnormally low production of collagen

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Are Overweight

Which stresses joints and causes cartilage to break down quickly

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Have Joint Injuries

Including fractures or ligament tears, or engage in an occupation or sport that requires frequent repetitive movements

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Experience Other Bone and Joint Problems