Osteoarthritis

Over half a billion people worldwide suffer from the pain, stiffness, and mobility issues of osteoarthritis. The experts at StrongURCare in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania, offer leading-edge care for this chronic condition, helping you identify the root cause of your symptoms, manage flare-ups, and achieve effective pain relief. To learn more about the treatments available for osteoarthritis, schedule your appointment by phone or request one online today.

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease caused by the deterioration of the cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones. As the cartilage deteriorates, your bones begin to rub against each other, causing pain, swelling, and limiting the joint’s range of motion.

Osteoarthritis typically affects the:

• Knees
• Hips
• Spine
• Hands
• Feet

Osteoarthritis usually develops with age, but if you’ve had previous injuries or do repetitive work, your risk of developing it will be higher.

What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?

The symptoms of osteoarthritis usually start slowly and gradually worsen. You can experience:

• Joint pain, especially during or after movement
• Stiffness, often in the morning or after sitting or otherwise being inactive
• Tenderness when pressing on the joint
• Reduced range of motion
• Grinding or clicking feeling when you move the joint
• Swelling
• Bone spurs

Expert care relieves discomfort and helps you avoid significant limitations to your daily activities.

How is osteoarthritis diagnosed?

The StrongURCare team starts by reviewing your medical history and performing a physical exam. They’ll assess your symptoms, examine the affected joints, and evaluate your range of motion and areas of tenderness.

Imaging tests like X-rays can confirm osteoarthritis by revealing joint-space narrowing, bone spurs, and other structural changes. StrongURCare offers on-site lab and X-ray services.

How is osteoarthritis managed?

While osteoarthritis can’t be cured, the team will manage your symptoms, improving the quality of your life by reducing pain, maintaining joint function, and slowing the disease’s progression.

They could recommend:

Medication

Over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription anti-inflammatory medication can relieve pain and swelling. 

Physical therapy

Physical therapy and regular exercise help strengthen the muscles around the joint, improving your stability and flexibility.

Lifestyle changes

Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on your joints. Braces or orthotics can also help.

If you experience a sudden flare-up of osteoarthritis pain, the team offers quick relief and guides you on the next steps to long-term management.

With proper care and timely treatment of osteoarthritis, you don’t have to say goodbye to doing the things you love. The team can help you stay active, maintain a higher quality of life, and address symptoms with science-backed solutions.

Schedule an osteoarthritis appointment with the compassionate team at StrongURCare by calling the office, booking online, or visiting in person today.