Treatment Options

After receiving a thorough evaluation, your orthopedic surgeon will discuss several treatment options:

Medication - There are many medications available to treat joint pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs) are a common medication for long-term reduction of pain and swelling. Newer anti-inflammatory drugs called COX-2 inhibitors provide promise in treatment of OA. COX-2 inhibitors block the creation of the proteins that cause joint pain. Both NSAIDs and COX-2 can cause indigestion, burning, or ulcer formation. Injections of corticosteroids offer a fast, effective relief of pain. However, they can only be given a few times annually because they weaken bone and cartilage.

Physical Therapy - Physical therapy is designed to strengthen muscles and preserve function.

Joint Fluid Supplements - If medication or physical therapy is not effective, joint fluid supplements help by adding a lubricant for temporary relief of pain. However, these injections do not cure a diseased joint and joint replacement may ultimately be required.

Total Joint Replacement - If all other treatments have failed, total joint replacement is often required for severe arthritic joints. The majority of total joint patients are over the age of 55. However, advances in artificial joint technology allow them to be placed in increasingly younger patients.