Osteoarthritis makes life more difficult than it should be. The pain, stiffness, and limited mobility can affect your daily life. But there is hope. With the right support from an orthopedic doctor, you can manage the symptoms and improve your quality of life.
This article will provide insights on how to manage osteoarthritis with the help of an orthopedic doctor.
The Role of an Orthopedic Doctor
An orthopedic doctor helps with conditions that affect your musculoskeletal system. This means that if you have a problem in your joints, muscles, or bones, you should see an orthopedic doctor.
Initial Consultation and Diagnosis
The first thing to do when managing osteoarthritis is to get the right diagnosis.
In your first meeting, your bone doctor will look at your medical history and check you physically. They might also ask for X-rays or MRI scans to see how much damage there is to your joints.
With this information, they will tell you what is going on and talk about treatment choices.
Developing a Treatment Plan
After the diagnosis, your bone doctor will help you make a treatment plan that suits you. This plan could include a mix of treatments that may or may not involve surgery.
What exactly is included in your treatment plan will depend on how bad your condition is and your general health.
Non-Surgical Treatments
For many people with osteoarthritis, these non-surgical options can help manage symptoms:
Medications
Pain pills and drugs that reduce swelling can ease pain and inflammation.
You can get over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. If those do not help, your bone doctor might prescribe stronger medicines.
Topical creams that you rub on the skin can also provide relief.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help your joints work better, increase flexibility, and strengthen muscles around the joint.
Your therapist might teach you simple exercises like leg raises or stretches that improve your range of motion. They will create a plan that fits your specific needs and abilities.
Lifestyle Changes
Modifying your habits and lifestyle can benefit your osteoarthritis symptoms. Keeping a healthy weight, staying active, and avoiding actions that stress your joints are important.
Your bone doctor can advise on the best exercises and activities for your situation.
By combining these treatments, many people find relief and maintain their mobility and preferred activity levels.
Advanced Non-Surgical Treatments
Sometimes, more advanced treatments that do not involve surgery are needed for osteoarthritis. These include:
Injections
Shots like corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid can help relieve pain and swelling temporarily. Your bone doctor will decide if these shots are right for you.
They might suggest them if regular treatments are not helping enough.
Assistive Devices
Braces, shoe inserts, canes, and other tools can reduce joint pressure and make moving around easier.
Consult your orthopedic doctor when choosing an assistive device. Your doctor can provide valuable insights about which one suits you best.
Surgical Treatment
If treatments without surgery are not working, surgery might be an option. For osteoarthritis, surgery choices include:
Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is a minor surgery. Your orthopedic surgeon will make a small incision, then use a small camera to look inside your joint. It can help fix issues like loose cartilage or damaged tissue.
It is less invasive and helps doctors examine the problem area without making large cuts.
Joint Replacement
In serious cases, replacing the joint with an artificial one might be needed. This surgery can greatly reduce pain and make it easier to move. It is usually considered when other treatments do not work.
Post-Surgical Care and Rehabilitation
After surgery, getting better is a big part of the process. Your doctor will set up a recovery plan that includes physical therapy and ways to manage pain. They will also set up check-up visits to see how you are doing.
Following this plan is key to a good recovery and returning to your daily activities.
How to Find the Best Orthopedic Doctor Near Me
Finding the right orthopedic doctor is crucial for managing osteoarthritis effectively. Here are some tips to help you find the best doctor for your needs:
Research and Referrals
Start by researching orthopedic doctors in your area. Ask for referrals from your primary care physician, friends, or family.
Check Credentials and Experience
Ensure that the doctor is board-certified and has experience in treating osteoarthritis. Look for doctors specializing in joint health and who have a proven track record of successful treatments.
Read Reviews and Testimonials
Reading reviews from other patients can provide valuable insights into the doctor’s expertise and patient care.
Look for positive feedback on their communication skills, bedside manner, and overall treatment outcomes.
Schedule a Consultation
Meeting with the doctor in person is essential. This allows you to discuss your condition, ask questions, and determine if you feel comfortable with their approach.
A good orthopedic doctor will listen to your concerns and explain your treatment options fully.
Reliable Orthopedic Doctor Near Me in San Antonio, TX
Managing osteoarthritis means taking a complete approach. This includes finding out what is wrong, getting a treatment plan just for you, and continuing to get medical care long term. An orthopedist near you is important in this process. Choose the right ortho near you and follow their advice. This way, you can manage your symptoms well and enjoy a more active, pain-free life.
At the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, we know the challenges of osteoarthritis. Our team of experienced orthopedic doctors is dedicated to providing personalized care. Call (210) 692-7400 to learn how the best orthopedic doctor near you can help. Schedule a consultation to visit the top orthopedic clinic near you.
We look forward to serving you!
Sources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/5599-osteoarthritis
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoarthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351925
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoarthritis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351930
