Osteoarthritis
About Osteoarthritis
One or more painful joints resulting from degeneration of cartilage in the joints. When cartilage thins, bone just beneath the cartilage thickens to absorb more impact. On x-ray, there is less `space` between bones (actually, less cartilage which does not show up on x-ray). Thickening of bone at the edge of a joint can create ridges of bone. When a ridge of bone is seen on a 2-dimentional x-ray it is called a `bone spur.` Osteoarthritis commonly occurs more in fingers, thumb and wrist, knees, hips and spine. It is more common after age 45.Symptoms
Deep aching joint pain that gets worse after exercise, pain relieved by rest, grating of the joint with motion, joint pain in rainy weather, joint swelling, limited movement, morning stiffness.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. An X-ray can demonstrate thinned cartilage, thickened bone, ridges of bone that appear as `bone spurs.` At times a CT scan and/or MRI is performed for more information.Common tests: CT Scan, MRI, X-ray.
OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
The goals of treatment are to decrease pain and maintain function. Treatment includes: exercise, pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), braces (especially for knee arthritis), joint injections, and physical therapy. Osteoarthritis gets worse over time. When it is severe joint replacement surgery can improve function and relieve pain.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Orthopedic Surgery · Rheumatology · Pediatrics · Family Practice · Podiatry · Joint Replacement Surgery
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Osteoarthritis.