By Dr. John C. Kagan, M.D.
We all know that life can be busy. With work, family and hobbies, it can be hard to find the time to care for you.
However, no matter how hectic life gets, your health is one component that shouldn’t be placed on the back burner, especially when it comes to the symptoms of osteoarthritis.
Warning signs of osteoarthrosis often develop as people age, with changes occurring slowly over the years. Regular visits to the doctor can ensure that your joint health is being monitored and any developments are addressed. Early diagnosis is essential so that you can take necessary precautions to protect your joints and prevent further or permanent damage to your body.
Osteoarthritis, or “wear-and-tear” arthritis, is caused when the cushioning cartilage between bones breaks down, causing the ends of the bone to rub against one another. This results in the inflammation of the affected joints, eventually leading to osteoarthritis. Although this disease can affect any joint, it most often occurs in the weight-bearing joints of the body, including hips, knees and lower back.
Symptoms of osteoarthritis vary depending on location and extent of damage, however, worsening pain, stiffness, swelling around the joints and loss of flexibility are all common signs of osteoarthritis. Ranging from mild to severe, indicators can make it difficult to complete simple, everyday tasks, such as opening a jar or climbing the stairs.
As we age, it is essential to monitor our bodies to determine the presence of any new warning signs that could indicate a more significant issue. While regular aches and pains are common with aging, if you have been injured, or are overweight, you may be at a greater risk of developing a more serious condition. if pain worsens or lasts longer than a few weeks, it is important to see a doctor so that your symptoms can be evaluated, accurately diagnosed and addressed.
Your doctor will evaluate your joint to determine presence and stage of pain, range of motion, swelling or tenderness and decreased muscle strength. Some additional tests may be needed to determine the full extent of damage. Once diagnosed, your physician can serve as a helpful guide as you navigate your symptoms, and can provide helpful solutions to assist you in caring for the wellness of not only your joints, but your overall health as well.
While osteoarthritis cannot be cured, there are many treatment and rehabilitation options that can play a significant role in relieving pain and regaining full motion and strength. While osteoarthritis can often be managed with a healthy diet and exercise, when pain is severe, physical therapy or surgical options may be advised to enhance your quality of life. If surgery is necessary, an orthopedic surgeon can help you determine the most effective treatment options for your condition and lead you along the path of recovery.
If you have concerns about your joint health, Dr. John C. Kagan and his staff are ready to answer all of your questions. Dr. Kagan has more than 30 years of experience as an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist treating patients in Southwest Florida. He specializes in treating patients with knee, shoulder and hip pain, as well as general orthopedics and hand surgery. For more information, visit www.kaganortho.com or call 239-936-6778.