SSM Health: Don't Let Arthritis Cramp Your Style

From the SSM Health St. Clare Hospital - Fenton:

June 11, 2021

By SSM Health

Sometimes, aches and pains just don’t go away.

Arthritis, which is the swelling and tenderness of joints, is a common culprit – especially as people age.

SSM Health Dean Medical Group – Janesville East Orthopedics PA-C Ryan O’Neill says that although there is no cure for arthritis, it doesn’t need to simply be accepted as a part of life.

“Our Orthopedics team helps to identify the cause of pain, such as joint issues, and works with community members to develop an individualized care plan,” O’Neill said.

Signs of arthritis often include pain, stiffness, swelling and decreased range of motion.

Osteoarthritis, which involves wear-and-tear damage to a joint’s cartilage, is one of the most commonly diagnosed types of arthritis.

“Osteoarthritis affects an entire joint because there is the deterioration of tissues that connect muscle to bone,” O’Neill said. “This can cause inflammation and sometimes there is even bone-on-bone movement.”

The rubbing bone-on-bone movement is very painful and may also lead to additional issues, such as the formation of bone spurs.

In the hip, for example, osteoarthritis pain often develops slowly and worsens over time. Additional signs may include:

• Pain in the groin area or thigh that radiates to the buttocks or knee
• Pain that worsens with vigorous activity
• Stiffness that makes it difficult to walk or bend
• Decreased range of motion, which may sometimes cause a limp

A variety of measures may be taken to address arthritis pain, including lifestyle or activity modifications. Losing weight can also sometimes help reduce stress on the joint, especially if its in the hip or knee.

Physical therapy can also be a fantastic choice for community members, because exercises are good for overall health and can also help increase range of motion, promote flexibility and strengthen the muscles surrounding a joint.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, or corticosteroid injections may also provide relief from arthritis pain.

Sometimes, surgery may also be the best option.

“There’s no reason to be in pain or give up on being active because of arthritis,” O’Neill said. “Our goal is to get you back to doing what you love and enjoying life’s moments.”

To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit SSM Health Orthopedics.

This press release was produced by the SSM Health St. Clare Hospital - Fenton. The views expressed are the author's own.