WHAT IS ARTHRITIS?
Degenerative arthritis is a condition that slowly wears away joints. In the beginning, you may notice that the affected joint seems stiff. It may even ache. As the joint lining (cartilage) breaks down, the bones rub against each other, causing pain and swelling. Over time, bone spurs develop, and the joint’s range of motion becomes limited. But movement doesn’t have to cause pain. The effects of arthritis can be reduced. Talk with your doctor about developing a treatment plan to meet your needs. |
TREATING ARTHTRITIS
If your symptoms are mild, medications may be enough to reduce pain and swelling. For more severe arthritis, surgery may be needed to improve the condition of the joint.
Medications
Your doctor may prescribe medication –pills or injections- to limit pain and swelling. Ice, aspirin, or ibuprofen may help relieve mild symptoms that occur after activity.
Surgery
To easy movement and reduce pain, your doctor may trim damaged bone. If arthritis is severe, the joint may be fused or removed.
Trimming Bone
If the bone is not damaged too badly, your doctor may simply shave away bone spurs. Any excess bone growth related to a bunion may also be trimmed.
Fusing Joints
If damage is more severe, your doctor may fuse the joint to prevent the bones from rubbing. Afterward, staples or screws may hold the bones in place so they heal properly. In some cases,the joint may be fused or replaced with an implant. |
