Orthopedic Arthritis Treatment in Noida, Delhi, India

Understanding Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, often referred to as degenerative joint disease, is the most prevalent type of arthritis. It occurs when the cartilage in the joints wears down over time, leading to pain and stiffness. While osteoarthritis can affect any joint, it most commonly impacts the hands, hips, knees, and spine. In some cases, multiple joints, such as those in the fingers, may be affected simultaneously.

Causes of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis develops as the cartilage cushioning the ends of bones deteriorates. The smooth cartilage surface becomes rough, leading to irritation. As the condition progresses, the cartilage may wear away completely, causing the bones to rub against each other. This results in pain, inflammation, and damage to the joint.

Key factors contributing to osteoarthritis include:

• Aging: Natural wear & tear over time.
• Joint Injury or Stress: Previous injuries or repetitive joint use can lead to cartilage breakdown.
• Genetics: Family history can play a role in developing osteoarthritis.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts additional strain on joints, especially weight-bearing ones like the knees and hips.
• Muscle Weakness: Weaker muscles around joints may not provide enough support, increasing stress on the cartilage.

Signs and Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis symptoms develop gradually and worsen over time. Common signs include:

• Joint Pain: Occurs during or after use, or after periods of inactivity.
• Joint Tenderness: Sensitivity when applying pressure to the affected joint.
• Stiffness: Often more noticeable after waking up or following inactivity.
• Loss of Flexibility: Reduced ability to move the joint through its full range of motion.
• Grating Sensation: A feeling of bones rubbing or clicking when moving the joint.
• Bone Spurs: Hard lumps that may form around the affected joint.
• Swelling: Inflammation around the joint, especially during flare-ups.

Treatment Options for Osteoarthritis

Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis, several treatments can help manage symptoms, reduce pain, and improve joint mobility. Depending on the severity, treatments are categorized into initial, moderate, and severe stages.

Initial Treatment Options

For mild osteoarthritis, doctors recommend conservative treatments, including:

• Rest: Resting the affected joint for 12-24 hours can reduce inflammation. Avoid repetitive movements that stress the joint.
• Exercise: Gentle activities like walking, swimming, or cycling can improve muscle strength and joint stability. Avoid exercises that strain painful joints.
• Weight Management: Losing excess weight reduces the stress on joints, particularly the knees and hips. Aim for gradual, healthy weight loss.
• Heat and Cold Therapy: Heat can relieve stiffness, while cold therapy helps with inflammation. Use heating pads or ice packs for short periods throughout the day.
• Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design an exercise plan to strengthen the muscles around the joint, increasing stability and reducing pain.
• Joint Protection: Occupational therapists can help find ways to reduce stress on joints during daily tasks, such as using ergonomic tools or supportive braces.

Moderate Osteoarthritis Treatment

If symptoms persist despite initial treatments, doctors may recommend medications, such as:

• Acetaminophen: Pain relievers that help manage moderate pain without the side effects of stronger medications.
• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Help reduce both pain and inflammation in the affected joint.

Severe Osteoarthritis Treatment

For severe cases where pain and disability significantly affect daily life, the following options may be considered:

• Stronger Painkillers: Prescribed medications to help manage severe pain.
• Cortisone Injections: Corticosteroid injections may relieve pain and inflammation in the joint. However, frequent use can lead to joint damage, so injections are limited.
• Viscosupplementation: Hyaluronic acid injections provide cushioning in the knee joint, improving mobility and reducing pain. However, these injections are only approved for knee osteoarthritis.

Surgical Options for Osteoarthritis

Surgery is usually reserved for cases where other treatments have failed to relieve severe pain and disability. Options include:

• Joint Replacement Surgery (Arthroplasty): The damaged joint is replaced with a prosthesis made of metal and plastic. This is most common for the hip and knee joints, though replacements for shoulders, elbows, fingers, and ankles are also possible. Joint replacements can last 15-20 years, depending on usage.
• Debridement: This minimally invasive surgery involves cleaning out debris from the joint, which may alleviate pain in some cases, especially if there’s a locking sensation caused by cartilage fragments.
• Osteotomy (Bone Realignment): This procedure is ideal for younger patients. It involves cutting the bone to realign the joint, shifting the weight away from the damaged area of the joint.
• Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis): For joints where replacement isn’t possible, such as the ankle, bones are fused together to eliminate pain, although the joint will lose flexibility.

Specialized Osteoarthritis Treatment at Metro Hospitals, India

At Metro Hospitals, Delhi, we offer comprehensive osteoarthritis care with a focus on personalized treatment plans. Our team of orthopedic specialists is equipped with the latest medical technologies to provide effective treatments ranging from conservative therapies to advanced surgical interventions. We specialize in:

• Minimally invasive surgeries for quicker recovery times.
• Customized physical therapy plans to improve joint function.
• Access to state-of-the-art diagnostic tools for early detection.

Book an appointment online with our experts to discuss your treatment options and begin your journey to pain-free living. Our specialists are dedicated to helping you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.

Contact Metro Hospitals, Delhi
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call our helpline +91 844 766 6333.