Osteoarthritis care

Osteoarthritis is the most commonly diagnosed form of arthritis, affecting around 595 million people worldwide. Are you one of the approximately 33 million adults in the United States suffering from chronic pain and limited mobility due to osteoarthritis? We’re here to help.

If you’ve been diagnosed with osteoarthritis or are experiencing persistent joint pain and stiffness, it can feel like life is passing you by. Osteoarthritis can impact your ability to move comfortably and complete everyday tasks, from walking and climbing stairs to simply getting out of a chair.

Our orthopedic specialists at Mount Nittany Health provide personalized care to help you better understand your condition and explore effective treatment options, so you can return to the activities you enjoy. You don’t have to feel like just another statistic. Maximize your mobility and rediscover relief from pain with Mount Nittany Health.

What is osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the protective cartilage cushioning the ends of your bones gradually wears down. As the cartilage deteriorates, bones begin to rub against each other, leading to pain, swelling and reduced joint flexibility.

Common osteoarthritis symptoms include joint pain during or after movement, stiffness (especially in the morning or after other periods of inactivity), tenderness, loss of flexibility and a grating sensation when using the affected joint. It most often affects the hands, knees, hips and spine.

While it’s often associated with aging, osteoarthritis can affect adults of all ages, especially those with joint injuries or repetitive stress on the joints. Although osteoarthritis cannot be reversed, early diagnosis and proper management can significantly reduce symptoms and slow its progression.

To see a specialist for osteoarthritis, talk with your primary care provider. They can give you a referral to be evaluated.

Types of osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis can develop in different ways depending on its cause and the joints involved. The most common types include:

• Primary osteoarthritis: This is the most common form of osteoarthritis. It typically develops gradually with age due to natural wear and tear on the joints. Multiple joints may be affected, including the knees, hips and hands.
• Secondary osteoarthritis: This type occurs as a result of an underlying condition or injury. Joint trauma (including sports injuries), obesity, congenital joint abnormalities or repetitive stress can all contribute to the development of secondary osteoarthritis.
• Localized osteoarthritis: In this form, osteoarthritis affects a single joint, often due to a previous injury or overuse. Commonly affected joints include the knee or shoulder.
• Generalized osteoarthritis: This involves multiple joints throughout the body and is more likely to have a genetic component. It’s often seen in individuals with a family history of osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis treatments

Managing osteoarthritis focuses on relieving pain, improving joint function and maintaining your quality of life. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of what is the best treatment for osteoarthritis. Mount Nittany Health’s orthopedic specialists know how to treat osteoarthritis by tailoring a treatment plan to your specific needs.

Your osteoarthritis treatment plan may include:

• Osteoarthritis medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce discomfort and swelling.
• Physical therapy: Targeted exercises can strengthen the muscles around your joints, improve flexibility and support better movement.
• Lifestyle changes: Learning about your condition can help you make positive lifestyle choices that can significantly reduce osteoarthritis symptoms. Such choices may include maintaining a healthy weight, staying active and protecting your joints from overuse.
• Assistive devices: Braces, shoe inserts or canes can help relieve pressure on affected joints and improve mobility.
• Injections: Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections may provide temporary relief for moderate to severe joint pain.
• Surgical options: In more advanced cases of osteoarthritis, procedures such as joint repair or joint replacement may be recommended to restore function and alleviate pain.

If joint pain is interfering with your daily life, don’t delay seeking treatment. Mount Nittany Health can help you find relief and get back to doing what matters most.