Osteoarthritis

What does osteoarthritis feel like?

Osteoarthritis, or wear-and-tear arthritis, is a common joint condition that causes pain and stiffness. It occurs when the smooth cartilage on your joints diminishes over time. Normally, this cartilage provides lubrication and cushioning. When it wears down, the underlying bone can become damaged. 

Osteoarthritis can make affected joints feel stiff and painful. You may lose the range of motion of an affected joint because of inflammation and the lack of healthy cartilage. As osteoarthritis progresses, you may notice:

• Increased joint pain with movement
• Visible swelling
• Visible joint deformity
• Joint instability
• Stiffness and trouble moving your joint

These symptoms can occur in any joint, but osteoarthritis is most common in your hands, knees, hips, and spine. 

Who is at risk for osteoarthritis?

Age is a major risk factor for osteoarthritis, as it can develop over time as you continue to use your joints. However, some people develop osteoarthritis in specific joints because of past surgery or injuries. 

You may be at an increased risk of developing arthritis if you:

• Are 55 or older
• Have a high body mass index (BMI)
• Have high cholesterol
• Injured a joint at some point in your life
• Have diabetes
• Have other forms of arthritis, like gout or rheumatoid arthritis

Osteoarthritis is very common, affecting more than 80% of adults over 55. Some experience symptoms, while for others, the damage is only detected with imaging tests. 

Which procedures treat osteoarthritis?

You may be interested in procedures if conservative care including physical therapy, bracing, ice therapy, heat therapy, and other topical treatments and medications don’t improve your symptoms. 

At IVO Miami, Dr. Foremny specializes in using image-guided injections to treat arthritis safely and nonsurgically. If conservative care has not relieved your symptoms, Dr. Foremny may recommend ultrasound-guided procedures. 

Orthobiologic injections

Orthobiologic injections, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and cell-based therapies, are injected into joints to support the body's natural healing process. These preparations are made from your own blood or tissue, concentrating growth factors and cells that can play a role in healing.

Steroid injections

Corticosteroid joint injections are placed directly into the joint to reduce the inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, which can help relieve joint pain in the short term. Because their benefit is typically temporary, Dr. Foremny uses them as part of a broader treatment plan.

Hyaluronic acid injections

Hyaluronic (HA) injections are available to treat osteoarthritis of the knee. They contain a lubricating gel-like substance that supports smooth joint movement.

Joint pain and stiffness can increase over time when you live with osteoarthritis. 

Call IVO Miami and schedule an appointment to review your osteoarthritis treatment options in detail.