Arthritis and Treatment

Arthritis is joint disease. Knee and hip arthritis are unfortunately very common. There are many types of arthritis, but they can all cause pain. Some of the most common are osteoarthritis, inflammatory arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis. Normally, the hip and knee joints allow seamless motion between the bones. This movement becomes less smooth and more painful as arthritis progresses.

Some arthritis conditions, such as lupus or rheumatoid, have specific medical treatments. These are rare. Most arthritis can be considered wear and tear disease, or osteoarthritis.

There are a few things that may slow down the progression of arthritis and pain, such as an active lifestyle, avoidance of smoking, and healthy weight loss. Although some people are proponents of specific vitamins and supplements to avoid progression of arthritis, we don’t have good evidence for their effectiveness.

Management of arthritis is frustrating for everybody. Arthritis pain can range from annoying to debilitating, so the management can also vary. Most patients with osteoarthritis may benefit from physical therapy, Tylenol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, walking aids, activity modifications, and sometimes even injections. Every treatment strategy has its own risks. Narcotics, such as oxycodone and morphine, are not good medications for arthritis and can cause significant harm.

A total hip or knee replacement can be helpful for many patients.

When pain and disability from arthritis has progressed to a degree that it can no longer be managed, surgery can be considered. Whether to undergo a total hip or knee replacement is a big decision. It is not the best decision for everyone with arthritis. However, if you do qualify for a total joint replacement, the positive results on your quality of life can be dramatic.

This is the most important part of your appointment with Dr. Adrados. The decision requires realistic expectations and an appreciation for the possible complications – the problems that can happen during and after surgery. Based on other medical problems, some patients have much higher risks of complications from surgery than other patients. Some patients may also have risks that require modification prior to surgery, leading to a much safer procedure. Discussion of your specific situation and a clear understanding of the benefits and risks of a total joint replacement is critical prior to proceeding with surgery.