What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis is inflammation and degeneration within a joint. In osteoarthritis, cartilage gradually wears down, causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced function.
Causes and Symptoms
Cartilage loss may be related to age, prior injury, alignment, inflammation, family history, or long-term stress on a joint. Symptoms often include pain, stiffness, swelling, grinding, and difficulty walking or using stairs.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Many patients begin with weight management, low-impact exercise, physiotherapy, strengthening, stretching, bracing, footwear changes, and activity modification.
Medication Options
Medication may include acetaminophen, topical anti-inflammatory medication, or oral anti-inflammatory medication when appropriate. Supplements such as glucosamine may help some patients, but benefit varies.
Injection Options
Cortisone, hyaluronic acid, and PRP injections may be considered in selected cases. Stem cell claims should be approached carefully because evidence and results vary.
Surgical Options
Joint replacement may be considered when pain and disability remain significant despite appropriate non-surgical care. Surgery is usually a final option after reviewing risks, benefits, recovery, and alternatives.