As one of the most common forms of arthritis, osteoarthritis is a condition that occurs when the protective cartilage surrounding bones starts to wear down. After some time, this can be a painful and limiting condition. Patients who start to experience some of the common symptoms of osteoarthritis should schedule a consultation with their trusted spine surgeon in Beverly Hills as soon as they can.
While osteoarthritis cannot be reversed, many of the symptoms can be decreased and managed. Keep reading to learn about the condition, how it may make you feel, and the best ways to treat it.
Common Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
Every person’s body is different, and the symptoms of osteoarthritis can vary from patient to patient. You may not experience all of these symptoms or experience them in the same way as another person struggling with osteoarthritis. However, these common symptoms will help map out a blueprint of the most telling things to look out for.
Bone Pain
Pain is one of the foremost symptoms of any form of arthritis, especially OA. Pain typically occurs in the bones, muscles, or tendons surrounding the affected area. This can come from either overuse or underuse of certain joints, causing the cartilage that keeps them cushioned to wear down in an uncomfortable way.
Swelling
When bones rub against each other in the absence of protective cartilage, it can cause inflammation in the body that ultimately leads to swelling. While swelling may not be a guaranteed symptom of osteoarthritis, it has been reported by enough patients for it to be a direct result of OA.
Stiffness
Possibly the most common symptom of osteoarthritis is rigid stiffness. This is usually worse for patients in the mornings and it gets a little better throughout the day. In bed, you might feel really achy and stiff all over, making it difficult for you to move. Reduced flexibility and range of mobility is a huge sign that osteoarthritis has started to run its course, and you should visit the doctor for symptom treatment right away.
Treating Your Symptoms Right Away
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, or additional symptoms such as fever and increased fatigue, it is important to get help from a certified spine specialist right away. The first step is to diagnose OA by determining its cause. Some people develop this condition purely as a sign of age, while others may have preexisting complications. The cause could determine what type of treatment would be best to reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Treatment may include:
- Physical or Occupational therapy, which is a long-term treatment to increase mobility and decrease symptoms of pain and physical limitation
- TENS therapy, a low-voltage current treatment that provides pain relief by sending electrical impulses through the body
- Cortisone injections, which reduce pain and hinder the nerves in the area of pain
- Spine surgery, in situations where the OA is advanced and affecting the entirety of the back
The best way to figure out what kind of treatment is best for your situation is to get in touch with Dr. Yashar and his team of friendly experts. Through advanced diagnosis procedures, we can determine the state of your osteoarthritis and the best course of action for long-term comfort.
Get Your Symptoms Treated ASAP
Visit us at our Beverly Hills location and get in touch with Dr. Yashar for a one-on-one consultation before your arthritis symptoms get out of hand. You can seek out the best osteoarthritis treatment in Los Angeles when you make an appointment with us today. Don’t wait until symptoms get worse, because there is no reversing this condition. Get your life back into your own hands and reduce your pain by giving us a call now!
