Osteoarthritis

Reclaim Your Mobility with Expert Osteoarthritis Care

Did you know that 32.5 million adults in the U.S. live with osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis? For many, this condition leads to joint pain, stiffness, and a diminished quality of life. 

Even more compelling, over 50% of individuals with knee osteoarthritis will require a total knee replacement during their lifetime. 

At Olive Branch Rheumatology, we specialize in providing advanced, personalized care to help you effectively manage osteoarthritis and regain an active, pain-free lifestyle. 

From early diagnosis to innovative treatments, our team is dedicated to improving your quality of life every step of the way.

Understanding Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, often known as degenerative joint disease, is the most common form of arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions your joints wears down over time. 

Osteoarthritis commonly affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine. Early recognition of osteoarthritis symptoms is essential for effective management and to prevent further joint damage.

Common Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

Joint pain, especially after activity

This refers to discomfort or aching in the affected joints, which worsens after physical activity or extended use. Examples include pain after walking or doing household chores. This can make even simple tasks challenging.

Stiffness upon waking or after periods of inactivity

A hallmark of osteoarthritis, this stiffness often occurs after resting, making it difficult to move the joint freely until it "loosens up" with gentle activity.

Reduced range of motion or flexibility

Over time, osteoarthritis can limit how far you can bend or move the joint, restricting daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, or lifting objects.

A sensation of grinding or instability in the joint

This occurs when the protective cartilage wears away, leading to a grating or creaking sensation during movement and sometimes causing the joint to feel unstable.

How Osteoarthritis is Diagnosed

Detailed Medical History Review

We review your medical history, including past injuries, surgical history, occupational history, and lifestyle factors. This information helps us pinpoint the causes of your symptoms and tailor your care.

Comprehensive Physical Exam

We perform a thorough physical examination to assess your joints for signs of osteoarthritis, including stiffness, swelling, and tenderness. This step is crucial for understanding the severity of your condition.

Advanced Imaging Tests

Imaging tools such as X-rays allow us to visualize the extent of joint involvement. This can help identify cartilage loss, bone spurs, and other changes associated with osteoarthritis for an accurate diagnosis.

The Importance of Early Diagnosis

Identifying osteoarthritis early gives you the best chance for successful treatment. Early intervention allows us to create a customized treatment plan designed to relieve pain, improve mobility, and slow disease progression.

Osteoarthritis Treatment Options

Osteoarthritis has no cure. It is a natural part of getting older. Once it develops, there are no treatments that reverse the condition. Treatments are aimed at helping patients reduce pain and optimize quality of life. Here’s a look at what we provide:

Non-Surgical Osteoarthritis Treatment

Patients can find relief through non-invasive approaches that help to manage symptoms and restore mobility:

• Physical therapy for osteoarthritis: physical therapists can work with you on exercises that strengthen muscles around the joint, improve flexibility, and reduce stiffness.

• Pain management for osteoarthritis: treatments tailored toward reducing pain from osteoarthritis include medications, joint injections, or joint replacement surgery

Advanced Interventions

Patients with more advanced osteoarthritis may need to be referred to an orthopedic surgeon to be evaluated for joint replacement surgery, utilizing the latest techniques to ensure faster recovery and optimal results.

Lifestyle Modification Support

Our approach to osteoarthritis at Olive Branch Rheumatology emphasizes making lifestyle changes that support long-term relief, such as maintaining a healthy weight, practicing low-impact exercises, and protecting your joints from excessive strain.

Why Choose Olive Branch Medical?

Personalized Treatment Plans

At Olive Branch Rheumatology, we understand that every patient’s experience with osteoarthritis is unique. That’s why we take the time to assess your specific needs, lifestyle, and goals. Our team develops customized treatment plans focusing on your requirements, ensuring you receive the most effective care possible. 

Whether you’re looking for non-surgical options, physical therapy, or advanced treatments, every aspect of your plan is designed with you in mind.

Empowering and Educating Patients

We believe in a collaborative approach to osteoarthritis care. That’s why we take the time to educate you about your condition and empower you to make informed choices about your treatment. 

You’ll learn practical tips for managing symptoms and improving mobility. From physical therapy to advanced pain management solutions, we’re here to help you stay active and prevent additional wear and tear on your joints.

Source: 

https://oaaction.unc.edu/oa-module/oa-prevalence-and-burden/