Arizona Osteoarthritis pain treatment

Osteoarthritis (Painful Joints)

Shoulder Knees, Hips, Hands, Spine, Jaw . . .

Osteoarthritis is the condition where a joint surface begins to break down. This can occur in any joint of the human body. The most commonly affected joints are the knees, hips, hands, spine and even the jaw. It usually causes pain, stiffness and swelling of the joint.

The process of degeneration begins with an injury to the joint. This may be acute (athletic injury) or chronic (stress to the joint over a long period of time). The injury causes the ligaments to become “loose” or unstable. Each joint is designed to move smoothly and efficiently but if the joint is unstable, increased stress is placed on areas that are not meant to have these increased forces applied to them. The joint responds by trying to “stabilize” the joint. There may be swelling, muscle spasm around the affected joint and extra bone formation called “bone spurs”.

Treatment for Osteoarthritis

Our approach to treating Osteoarthritis is to treat both the loose ligaments and the nerves around the joint. This comprehensive approach is effective at treating the pain associated with OA but also re-stabilizing the joint. This leads to decreased pain, increased mobility and returning to activity as quickly as possible.

Dr. Greg Reser

“When you can do what you want without your body slowing you down, it leads to a happier life. In Arizona, our weather is (usually) so sunny that the weather doesn’t slow you down. Your body should be the same way. You shouldn’t have to worry about whether it’s rainy outside or if you body is in pain. Just plan your activity and go for it!”

http://www.annfammed.org/content/11/3/229.full.pdf