OSTEOARTHRITIS TREATMENTS

PATHOLOGIES

TREATMENTS FOR OSTEOARTHRITIS
DR. JORDI JIMÉNEZ
 

There are various osteoarthritis treatments that can help maintain and improve your quality of life:

DRUGS

Pain relievers are medications that can help with symptoms. Most doctors recommend paracetamol first, but if the pain persists, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, diclofenac, etoricoxib, celecoxib, etc. may be recommended. Opioid medications can be used with a prescription for patients with severe pain that does not improve with NSAIDs. Topical treatments such as capsaicin cream can relieve pain.
Supplements that can be used include:

  • Glucosamine
  • Chondroitin
  • Viscosupplementation (intra-articular hyaluronic acid injections)

LIFESTYLE CHANGES

  • Staying active and exercising can maintain joint movement.
  • Walking, Pilates, or water exercises such as swimming are helpful.
  • Other recommendations:
    • Apply heat and cold to the joint
    • Maintain a healthy diet
    • Get enough rest
    • Lose weight if you are overweight

PHYSICAL THERAPY

It can help improve muscle strength and mobility in stiff joints, as well as balance.
Massage therapy can also help with pain relief. Be sure to work with a therapist experienced in managing osteoarthritis.


ORTHOPEDIC DEVICES

Splints and orthopedic devices can sometimes provide support to affected joints. Some prevent joint movement; others allow some movement. They should only be used when recommended by a doctor or therapist, as improper use can cause joint damage, stiffness, and pain.


ALTERNATIVE TREATMENTS

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese treatment. It is believed that when needles stimulate certain points on the body, substances are released that block pain. Acupuncture can provide pain relief.

SURGERY

Severe cases or those that do not improve with the above treatments may require surgery to replace or repair damaged joints. There are several options:

  • Arthroscopic surgery to clean the joint (damaged cartilage, degenerated and/or torn meniscus, inflammation of the synovial membrane, etc.)
  • Changing the axis of a bone to relieve pressure on the affected joint (osteotomy)
  • Surgical fusion of bones, usually in the spine (arthrodesis)
  • Partial or complete replacement of the affected joint with a prosthesis

PREVENTION

  • Try not to overload the painful joint at work or during daily activities.
  • Maintain a normal body weight. Strengthen your muscles, especially those in weight-bearing joints (hip, knee, or ankle).

Make an appointment with Dr. Jordi Jiménez. He will see you in the center of Palma and help you regain your quality of life.