Osteoarthritis in Longview, WA

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time. While osteoarthritis can damage any joint, it most commonly affects joints in your hands, knees, hips, and spine. Unlike other forms of arthritis, osteoarthritis primarily affects the cartilage, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

What Causes Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis develops due to a combination of factors, including:

Age:

The risk of osteoarthritis increases with age as the wear and tear on joints accumulate over the years.

Joint Injury:

Previous injuries to a joint can increase the likelihood of developing osteoarthritis in that joint.

Obesity:

Excess body weight puts additional stress on weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and hips, accelerating cartilage breakdown.

Genetics:

A family history of osteoarthritis can increase your risk of developing the condition.

Genetics:

A family history of osteoarthritis can increase your risk of developing the condition.

Repetitive Stress:

Occupations or activities that require repetitive motion or heavy lifting can contribute to joint wear and tear.

Bone Deformities:

Some people are born with malformed joints or defective cartilage, which can lead to osteoarthritis.

What Symptoms Will I Experience with Osteoarthritis?

The symptoms of osteoarthritis can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the joints affected. Common symptoms include:

Joint Pain:

Pain in the affected joint during or after movement.

Stiffness:

Joint stiffness, especially noticeable upon waking up or after periods of inactivity.

Tenderness:

The joint may feel tender when you apply light pressure to it.

Loss of Flexibility:

Reduced range of motion in the affected joint.

Grating Sensation:

A feeling of grating or a crackling sound when you use the joint.

Bone Spurs:

Extra bits of bone, which feel like hard lumps, may form around the affected joint.

Swelling:

Inflammation and swelling around the joint.

What Should I Try at Home Before Seeing a Provider for Osteoarthritis?

Before seeking professional medical treatment, there are several home remedies and lifestyle changes you can try to manage osteoarthritis symptoms:

Weight Management:

Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the stress on your joints, particularly weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.

Exercise:

Regular physical activity can help maintain joint function and reduce stiffness. Low-impact exercises such as swimming, walking, and cycling are particularly beneficial.

Heat and Cold Therapy:

Applying heat can help relax muscles and increase blood flow, while cold therapy can reduce inflammation and numb pain.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers:

Non-prescription medications like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and inflammation.

Assistive Devices:

Using braces, shoe inserts, or canes can help reduce stress on affected joints.

Healthy Diet:

Consuming a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, can support overall joint health.

Best Treatment Options for Osteoarthritis

If home remedies are not providing sufficient relief, it may be time to explore professional treatment options. At First Choice Medical Center, we offer a range of advanced, non-surgical solutions for osteoarthritis, including:

Regenerative Therapies

Regenerative therapies, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapy, aim to repair and regenerate damaged tissues. These treatments use the body's natural healing mechanisms to promote the repair of cartilage and reduce inflammation, potentially slowing the progression of osteoarthritis.

Functional Rehabilitation

Functional rehabilitation focuses on improving joint function and mobility through personalized exercise programs and physical therapy. Our team of experts will work with you to develop a customized rehabilitation plan that targets your specific needs and goals, helping you regain strength and flexibility.

Customized Treatment Plans

Every patient's experience with osteoarthritis is unique, which is why we offer customized treatment plans tailored to your individual condition and lifestyle. Our comprehensive approach includes thorough initial consultations, examinations, and diagnostic tests to develop a plan that addresses your specific symptoms and needs.

Non-Surgical Solutions

We prioritize non-surgical solutions to manage osteoarthritis, helping you avoid the risks and recovery time associated with surgery. Our treatments are designed to provide natural health solutions and improve your quality of life without relying on prescription pain medications.

Our Process for Treating Osteoarthritis

At First Choice Medical Center, we follow a systematic and patient-centered approach to treating osteoarthritis:

Initial Consultation

During your first visit, we will conduct a detailed consultation to understand your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle.

Comprehensive Examination

A thorough physical examination and diagnostic tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, will be performed to assess the extent of joint damage.

Customized Treatment Pla

Based on the findings, we will develop a personalized treatment plan that may include regenerative therapies, functional rehabilitation, and other non-surgical solutions.

Ongoing Support

Our team will provide continuous support and monitoring throughout your treatment journey, making adjustments as needed to ensure optimal results.

Education and Empowerment

We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge and resources to manage their condition effectively. We will provide guidance on lifestyle changes, exercise routines, and other strategies to support joint health.

Conclusion

Living with osteoarthritis doesn’t have to mean a life of pain and limited mobility. At First Choice Medical Center in Longview, WA, we are committed to helping you achieve a healthy, high-quality life through advanced, research-backed treatments and personalized care. Explore our integrative and regenerative medical solutions to find relief and restore your joint function naturally.

For more information on our services and to learn about our approach to treating osteoarthritis, visit our website.