Arthritis Archives - Orthopedic & Sports Medicine

Common Myths About Arthritis

Article featured on ASBMB Today

Arthritis causes pain, swelling and inflammation of one or multiple joints. It’s not a single disease but an umbrella term used to refer to a wide array of conditions. It’s one of the most widespread health conditions in the nation.

There are more than 100 types of arthritis, of which osteoarthritis is the most common. Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, occurs over time due to wear and tear of cartilage that protects the ends of the bones. Although osteoarthritis can damage any joint, the disorder most commonly affects joints in the hands, knees, hips and spine.

There are also inflammatory forms, such as rheumatoid arthritis; psoriatic arthritis; and the arthritis associated with ankylosing spondylitis, lupus and gout. In those cases, inflammation is caused by an overactive immune system that attacks connective tissues.

In the United States, an estimated 58.5 million individuals are gripped with arthritis — the leading cause of disability. More than 50% of this population fall in the working age group (18 to 64 years).

Despite how common this condition is, there are several myths that persist, making it confusing for patients seeking to relieve their symptoms and to improve their quality of life. This article aims at debunking these long-held myths and getting your facts straight!

Myth #1: Arthritis is an old-age disease and cannot affect children.

Fact: Arthritis is more common in older adults, but there are several types that can affect both children and young adults.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (also known as childhood arthritis or juvenile rheumatoid arthritis) is the most common type of arthritis among children and can cause permanent physical damage to joints. According to Cleveland Clinic, one in 1,000 children (or about 300,000 children in the U.S.) are affected.

Myth #2: All joint pain is arthritis.

Fact: There are many conditions — such as tendonitis, bursitis and other soft-tissue injuries — that cause joint pain and have a pain profile similar to that of arthritis. Hence, it is of utmost importance to get an accurate medical diagnosis, preferably by a rheumatologist, before treating any kind of joint pain.

Myth #3: When you start experiencing joint pain, you should wait to see if it goes away on its own.

Fact: False! Diagnosing and treating arthritis at its early stage not only can save your joints but also save you from damage to vital organs. Certain forms, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can damage skin, eyes, lungs, blood vessels, the brain and the heart. It is important to determine which type of arthritis you have right away, because treatment varies and starting the correct treatment can be the key to preventing permanent damage.

Myth #4: Arthritis symptoms cannot be improved.

Fact: There currently isn’t a cure for arthritis. However, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and improving joint function. Working with an arthritis expert can help.

Depending upon the type of arthritis, certain medications can reduce pain and inflammation. Osteoarthritis often is treated with pain-reducing medications, physical activity, weight loss (if the person is overweight) and self-management education.(Learn more about treatment.) Inflammatory disorders are treated with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs that suppress the immune system.

Heat and cold treatment and assistive devices, such as walkers, braces and gloves, also can help.

Myth #5: Exercising will worsen your condition.

Fact: Exercise can help increase strength, motion and flexibility and reduce pain and swelling. Inactivity can cause the symptoms to worsen, thus increasing both pain and swelling. Before you enroll in any exercise program, it is also important to know what your limits are and what level of exercise you can benefit from.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:

503-224-8399

Address
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

A Guide to Managing Arthritis Pain Throughout the Body

in Arthritis, General Orthopedics

Article featured on YaleMedicine

Anyone who struggles to button a shirt or get up from a chair because of arthritis knows how painful and limiting the condition can be. Symptoms worsen with age, but if you’re young and think you are still years away from experiencing them, you may be surprised to learn that although the onset of arthritis is typically after age 40, even people in their 20s can develop it.

There are more than 100 different types of arthritis, a general term for conditions that affect the joints, tissues around the joints, and other connective tissues. About 25% of adults in the U.S. have some form of arthritis.

The most common type, by far, is osteoarthritis (OA), a degenerative disease resulting from a breakdown of the cartilage that eases friction between the joints. Inflammatory joint diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or psoriatic arthritis, are autoimmune conditions in which the body’s immune system attacks the joints, causing redness, stiffness, painful swelling, and deformity; they commonly begin in middle age. Yet another type is post-traumatic arthritis, which can occur years after an injury—even if the injury itself was successfully treated.

Whatever type of arthritis you may have, the one thing you should not do is ignore it.

“People with symptoms of arthritis should get evaluated early to find out if they have it and, if so, how far it has progressed, so they can make a plan for the future,” says David Gibson, MD, a Yale Medicine orthopaedic surgeon. “There are many medical and surgical treatments available that can ease pain and help with mobility.”

Depending on their type of arthritis, people may see a rheumatologist or an orthopaedic surgeon—or both—for care. “Rheumatologists have made advances in treating RA with disease-modifying, anti-rheumatic drugs that suppress inflammation, and with biologics that target specific molecules involved in the development of RA,” says Insoo Kang, MD, a rheumatologist who treats various forms of arthritis. “We treat RA with medications, but if your joints need to be surgically treated, we’ll refer you to our colleagues in orthopaedics.”

We spoke to Yale Medicine orthopaedists and rheumatologists about how to treat arthritis in four of the most common areas where it develops.

Hip arthritis

How it happens: The hip is a ball-and-socket joint that is padded and protected by smooth cartilage during movement. When that cartilage breaks down due to overuse, aging, stress on the body from obesity, and/or any number of other factors, bone rubs against bone, causing pain and other symptoms. It’s a common area for OA to develop. And, while RA usually starts in the smaller joints, it can show up in the hip as well.

“The hip really drives the boat,” says Dr. Gibson, who specializes in both hip and knee disorders. “If the hip isn’t working, the feet and ankles are under stress, and it becomes harder to move your knee. A person may notice a ’locking’ noise with movement, decreased range of motion, a limp, and/or pain in the groin that can move down the leg and up into the back. You might eventually start to walk with an altered gait.”

Self-care: Start an exercise program (or change the one you have to avoid high-impact sports, such as running or tennis), maintain a healthy diet, and lose weight, if needed.

Dr. Gibson suggests trying “a gentle cyclic loading program,” like walking or low-impact aerobics. These types of activities have been shown to be protective of joints. Talk to your doctor about taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), but remember that these are intended for short-term use.

How a specialist can help: Consult a professional when your hip arthritis limits daily function or regular activities.

A specialist will start with noninvasive treatments, including physical therapy and oral medications. If these simple treatments don’t work, more invasive treatments, like corticosteroid hip injections, can minimize symptoms and preserve function. One caveat is that injections are “a double-edged sword” in that they relieve inflammation and provide acute pain relief, but they can be toxic to the areas where they are administered. So, you don’t want to do too many—maybe two or three at most in a given year.

If you’re considering surgery: Hip replacement is considered one of the most successful operations in orthopaedics. It’s minimally invasive and can be done as an outpatient surgery in many cases. It’s really a dramatic, transformative operation—someone who was sedentary can get to a place where they can do pretty much everything again.

Replacement hips use implants—made of a combination of metal, plastic, and ceramic—that last decades. One operation, called the direct anterior approach, avoids cutting through muscle to replace a hip, and surgeons say that leads to easier rehabilitation.

Whatever approach a patient chooses, the key is to find a surgeon who has done a high volume of that particular operation and is comfortable performing it, Dr. Gibson adds.

Hand and base-of-the-thumb arthritis

How it happens: The small joints of the hands are a place where both OA and RA can develop. One difference with RA is that it typically develops on both sides of the body, whereas OA is less symmetrical. OA often starts in the most distal, or faraway, joint on an index finger. But it hurts more at the base of the thumb, where it is incredibly common, especially in women, since they have looser joints, which is necessary for giving birth. It also can be accelerated by very heavy manual labor—so it affects a high number of people who do work with their hands that requires a heavy grip, as in construction and woodworking.

Self-care: Moving and exercising the affected joints can help, but the key is to avoid putting too much stress on the area. Find ways to adapt, such as buying clothes that don’t have buttons, snaps, or zippers. Talk to your doctor about taking NSAIDs for pain.

How a specialist can help: They can prescribe a brace (there are rigid ones for sleep and softer daytime ones that don’t restrict mobility).

While it is very adaptable, the hand is prone to stiffness, adding that it can do more harm than good to wear a splint for too long.

If you’re considering surgery: “There are three approaches,” says Dr. Luo. “The first, done only at the base of the thumb, is called resection arthroplasty, and it removes the joint completely. While it’s highly successful, a full recovery takes up to two years.” The second replaces the small joints in the fingers and may need to be redone in 8 to 11 years. The third, also in the fingers, is called joint fusion—while the joint will never move again, the fusion provides stability that relieves pain, he adds.

Knee arthritis

How it happens: The knee is the largest and strongest joint in the body. It includes three important bones that are covered with cartilage, which protects the knee as you bend or straighten it, and the meniscus—two pieces of cartilage that cushion the thigh and shin bones.

It’s a common area for OA to develop, and RA can sometimes show up in the knee as well. Sports injuries, motor vehicle accidents, or falls—even after they are treated with surgery—can also damage both cartilage and bone. These injuries can change the way a person moves their knee, which can lead to post-traumatic arthritis.

Self-care: Lose weight, if needed; switch from high-impact activities, like running, to low-impact ones, like walking or swimming; avoid movements, like lunges and squats, that could make the condition worse. Apply ice or heat for pain, and talk to a doctor about taking NSAIDs.

How a specialist can help: They can recommend specific exercises and/or physical therapy, and provide assistive devices like canes. They also prescribe oral and topical medications, as well as injections, starting with cortisone shots. “A second line of treatment is the injection of hyaluronic acid, a substance that occurs naturally in the joint and can add some temporary lubrication and cushioning in patients who have little or no swelling,” Dr. Gibson says.

If you’re considering surgery: There are a variety of knee surgeries, including synovectomy, which replaces a joint lining damaged by RA, and cartilage grafting, which uses healthy tissue from another part of the knee to replace damaged cartilage. If a knee replacement is called for, it may be performed as a same-day surgery using materials (that are longer lasting than have been used in the past) for implants.

“We’ve become better with anesthesia and with pain control afterwards,” says Dr. Gibson. Anesthesiologists use nerve blocks, a type of pain relief that leaves people more comfortable in the day or two after surgery and can minimize or eliminate the need for opioid medicines.

Surgeons want patients to start moving soon after knee surgery to prevent scar tissue from developing. “You have to really get that motion early,” says Dr. Gibson.

Foot and ankle arthritis

How it happens: The foot hitting any surface (whether you are walking or running) puts a high degree of contact stress on arthritic joints—every step hurts. The pain can be quite excruciating if a joint is damaged. Range of motion becomes limited, and bone spurs can develop. Pain is common in the big toe, on the top of the foot, and in the ankle.

Self-care: Keep your weight under control, as being overweight or having obesity puts stress on the foot and ankle. Modify your activity if overuse seems to be exacerbating the pain, and try ice packs. Ankle-strengthening exercises (using a resistance band) and Achilles-stretching exercises can also help reduce pain. Talk to your doctor about using NSAIDs.

How a specialist can help: We always have to think of evenly distributing mechanical load. He compares the foot and ankle to a tripod and says it must be well-balanced to be optimized for even the most basic functions, like taking a step. Some people with foot arthritis will compensate to avoid feeling pain and that can throw off the balance, he adds. Supportive shoes, an ankle brace, and orthotics may help.

If you’re considering surgery: Surgeons who have special training can address problems with biomechanics by surgically realigning the foot, ankle, and lower leg to “off-load” the area that is damaged by arthritis, Dr. Oh says. “I can remove bone spurs and clean up the joint using a minimally invasive technique or realign the ankle in a way that evenly redistributes the load, so that the stress to the impacted area is lessened.”

Replacing or fusing arthritic joints may also be recommended. There are innovative joint replacement options for such surgical treatments as toe implants and total ankle replacements for people whose joints are severely damaged or who have no cartilage left.

That’s important for young patients because while the materials used in replacements in the feet and toes are always improving, they have a limited lifespan.

Therefore, optimizing the balance of the foot and ankle is crucial for extending the longevity of those implants, he explains.

Should you get help for arthritis?

Whatever type of arthritis a person has, a key factor in determining when to treat it—and when to perform surgery—is how they tolerate pain, says Dr. Luo. There are people with mild arthritis who seek care early to avoid prolonged pain, while others don’t remark on their pain, even after an X-ray shows extensive damage, he explains. “Some have a lot of arthritis and never need treatment, while others have a lower level of arthritis and need surgery. Everyone is different,” he says.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:

503-224-8399

Address
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

What Does Lumbar Facet Arthritis Pain Feel Like?

in Arthritis, Spine

Lumbar facet arthritis (lumbar spondylosis) refers to degenerative issues that impact the small facet joints of the lumbar spine. These joints are located on either side of the vertebrae and help with movement and stability. When the joints become inflamed or damaged, it leads to constant pain in the lower back.

The symptoms of lumbar facet arthritis vary, but you may experience intense back pain that worsens with certain movements or positions. The pain may also radiate to other areas of the body. Call Ospina Medical to learn more about this form of arthritis and what advanced treatment options are available. In New York City, NY, Dr. Matthew Kohler may recommend regenerative medicine like PRP and platelet lysate for low back pain.

What causes lumbar facet arthritis?

As we age, our bodies naturally start to experience wear and tear. The same is true for the facet joints in the lumbar spine. Over time, the cartilage that protects these joints can break down, leading to bone-on-bone contact and inflammation.

In addition, certain lifestyle factors increase your risk of developing lumbar facet arthritis. These include obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, poor posture, and repetitive movements or activities that put a strain on the lower back.

The symptoms of lumbar facet arthritis

The most common symptom of lumbar facet arthritis is persistent low back pain. The pain is usually described as deep, achy, and dull, but if the disease is severe enough, it can also cause sharp and shooting pains that travel from the back down the leg.

The pain from lumbar facet arthritis can be worse in the morning or after long periods of sitting or standing. It may be aggravated by certain movements, such as bending backward. Some people also experience stiffness and limited range of motion.

If you have back pain that does not improve with rest or over-the-counter medications, seek medical attention at Ospina Medical in New York City, NY. Dr. Kohler can provide a proper diagnosis before making recommendations moving forward.

How we diagnose lumbar facet arthritis

Diagnosing lumbar facet arthritis involves a combination of physical exams and a medical history review. During the exam, Dr. Kohler will ask about your symptoms and perform a series of tests to assess your range of motion and level of pain. Once we confirm the diagnosis, we can then create an individualized treatment plan.

What are my options for lumbar facet arthritis?

At Ospina Medical, our team may recommend PRP and platelet lysate for low back pain. Platelet-rich plasma involves using your own platelets to encourage natural tissue healing and reduce inflammation. Platelet lysate is another form of regenerative medicine that uses growth factors from platelets to improve joint function.

When combined with physical therapy and lifestyle modifications, these treatments can alleviate pain, improve mobility, and prevent further damage to the lumbar facet joints. Dr. Kohler may also recommend anti-inflammatory medications or steroid injections for temporary relief.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:

503-224-8399

Address
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

Arthritis of the Neck

in Arthritis, Neck Injuries, Neck Pain

Article featured on TriHealth

Arthritis of the Neck

Natural wear and tear of the cervical spine causing arthritis of the neck. As you age, the discs that serve as cushions between vertebrae begin to bulge, shrink or weaken. This allows the vertebrae to start collapsing on one another. This causes pain, stiffness and loss of range of motion. Your body responds to these changes by growing new bone (bone spurs), which can narrow the area around the spine.

Arthritis of the neck causes

Arthritis of the neck (cervical spondylosis) is most often a result of aging. It can also be caused by:

Family history
Injury
Smoking

Arthritis of the neck symptoms

Many people with arthritis of the neck (cervical spondylosis) don’t experience any symptoms. However, some symptoms may include:

Grinding noise when turning the neck
Headaches
Loss of balance
Muscle spasms in neck and shoulders
Neck pain
Popping noise when turning the neck
Stiffness in the neck
Trouble walking
Weakness in the legs, arms, hands or fingers

Arthritis of the neck treatment

Your treatment will depend on the cause of the pinched nerve. Treatment may include:

Physical therapy –A certified physical therapist will teach you exercises to reduce pain, improve flexibility and strengthen muscles in the neck.
Medicine – Over-the-counter and prescription medicine can help relieve chronic pain, reduce inflammation and help you find comfort.
Injections – Corticosteroid injections, medial branch blocks and other injections can help reduce inflammation and help relieve pain caused by arthritis in the neck.
Acupuncture – Thin needles are inserted into specific spots along the spine to trigger the release of certain chemicals into the body, helping reduce pain. Acupuncture, along with traditional treatment, like pain management or physical therapy helps with pain.
Massage – Medical massage therapy can help reduce inflammation, ease pain and provide relief from certain back conditions. Your doctor may recommend massage therapy along with other treatments.
Anti-inflammatory Diet – A diet that helps boost your body’s natural ability to fight inflammation may help reduce symptoms, when combined with other treatment plans.

Generally, surgery is not needed to treat arthritis. Your provider may recommend surgery if your arthritis is causing another cervical spine condition, like a pinched nerve.

Arthritis of the neck risk factors

You may be at higher risk of developing arthritis in the neck if you:

Experienced trauma or injury to the neck
Have a family history of neck pain or neck arthritis
Have a job that requires repetitive neck movement or overhead work
Smoke

Arthritis of the neck prevention

Nearly everyone over age 60 will develop cervical spondylosis. But, you can take steps to reduce your risk and minimize your pain:

Eat healthy
Exercise regularly
Maintain a healthy weight
Strengthen back and core muscles

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:

503-224-8399

Address
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

Is It Possible to Prevent Arthritis?

in Arthritis

Article featured on Harvard Health Publishing

Q. So many of my relatives and friends have arthritis. I have been fortunate so far. Is there any proven way to prevent it?

A. You may be able to lower your risk for three of the most common types of arthritis: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. Here’s a brief description of each and how to possibly prevent them.

Osteoarthritis, the most common type, occurs when the cartilage of a joint erodes (breaks down). Bones begin to rub against each other, causing pain and difficulty moving the joint. It’s also the most common reason for knee and hip replacements. Take these steps to lower your risk:

Maintain a healthy weight. Osteoarthritis becomes more common with age and tends to run in families. But millions of cases might be prevented by avoiding excessive weight gain.
Avoid trauma. Injury also increases the risk of osteoarthritis. Some ways to avoid injury include exercising regularly, doing resistance training, and not taking unnecessary risks at work or at play.
Prevent and treat conditions that might contribute to joint damage like gout (see below) or an infection.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes pain, stiffness, warmth, redness, and swelling in joints. Over time, the affected joints may become misshapen, misaligned, and damaged. Rheumatoid arthritis usually occurs in a symmetrical pattern, meaning that if one knee or hand has it, the other usually does, too. Ways to reduce your risk of rheumatoid arthritis include avoiding tobacco and improving your oral health. Gum inflammation (gingivitis) caused by certain bacteria has been linked to many health conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis. Good oral hygiene and regular dental care may lower the risk.

Gout occurs when crystals of uric acid get deposited in one or more joints and trigger inflammation that causes pain, swelling, and redness. You can reduce your risk by doing the following:

Eat a healthy diet. Avoid any foods that seem to trigger gout attacks, such as liver and sweetbreads. A heart-healthy diet such as the Mediterranean diet may reduce the risk of gout in some people.
Limit alcohol. Stick to no more than one drink per day, and avoid binge drinking.
Stay well hydrated.
Lose weight if you are overweight or obese.
Avoid diuretics (water pills) if possible (but discuss all medication changes with your doctor).

If you notice joint pain, joint swelling, or difficulty doing activities, see your doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference in your future joint health.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:

503-224-8399

Address
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

Can Surgery Help Your Knee Arthritis?

in Arthritis, Knee Injuries, Knee Pain

Article featured on Arkansas Surgical Hospital

Knee arthritis is a common condition that typically leads to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the knee joint. If your knee arthritis has caused substantial damage to the cartilage or bone, you may need surgery. An orthopedic surgeon can take out the damaged portions of the knee joint, remove bone spurs, and repair torn ligaments.

What Causes Knee Arthritis?

Knee arthritis is caused by the breakdown of cartilage in the knee joint. Cartilage damage can be caused by injury or wear and tear from aging, also known as osteoarthritis. It can also result from diseases that cause painful swelling in your joints, such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis.

When the cartilage in your knee breaks down, it leaves the bones in the joint unprotected. This can result in swelling, pain, and stiffness in your knee. Your doctor may recommend surgery if you have severe symptoms that haven’t responded well to other treatments.

Symptoms of Knee Arthritis

The symptoms of knee arthritis can vary from person to person, but often include:

Swelling and stiffness in the knee joint
Difficulty moving the knee
Pain that gets worse with activity
A clicking or grinding sound when you move your knee

Pain from knee arthritis can be felt in different areas of your knee, depending on where your joint is affected. Treatment for knee arthritis depends on the extent and location of the damage to your cartilage.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Knee Arthritis

There are a number of non-surgical treatments for knee arthritis. These include:

Anti-inflammatory medications
Physical therapy
Ice
Injections
Platelet-rich plasma therapy

Discuss your options with your doctor to decide which treatment for knee arthritis is best for your situation.

Surgery for Knee Arthritis

While non-surgical treatments may improve function and provide pain relief in some cases of knee arthritis, surgery is sometimes necessary.

There are three main types of surgery for knee arthritis:

Total knee replacement surgery replaces a severely damaged joint with an artificial implant that can restore function and improve mobility.
Resurfacing involves removing part of a damaged bone to replace it with an artificial implant.
Debridement removes debris or bits of cartilage that may have built up inside the knee joint.

Your surgeon will determine which procedure is best for reducing your symptoms and improving your knee function. The specific procedure you undergo will depend on the severity of your arthritis and where the damage is located in your knee.

During a surgery for knee arthritis, your surgeon will make an incision over or near the site of the damage to perform any necessary repairs or removal of inflamed tissue. In some cases, your surgeon may use arthroscopic equipment to view and fix the damage in your knee.

Recovering from Surgery for Knee Arthritis

Depending on your surgeon’s recommendation and how bad your arthritis is, you may require six weeks or more off work after a major knee surgery. How long you’ll need to use crutches or a walker/cane depends on the severity of the damage to your knee and any other medical concerns you have that might affect your recovery.

Rehabilitation after knee surgery typically lasts between three to six months. It includes physical therapy and exercise to get you back to your previous levels of strength and mobility. If you don’t stick with rehabilitation, there’s a chance your pain could come back, so it’s important to follow all of your surgeon’s instructions as you recover.

Do You Need Surgery for Knee Arthritis?

Severe knee pain can make simple tasks difficult to complete and keep you from doing things you enjoy. If you’re living with knee arthritis, it might be time to call your doctor and see the best treatment options for you.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:

503-224-8399

Address
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

Is It Carpal Tunnel or Is It Arthritis?

in Arthritis, Carpal Tunnel

Article featured on Orthoaedic Associates

If you are having pain in one or both hands, you may be wondering if carpal tunnel syndrome or arthritis are causing you pain. While both conditions can cause pain, there are several key differences between the two. Carpal tunnel syndrome can cause weakness, tingling, or numbness in the hand. Arthritis can also cause pain and make it difficult to grasp things, but for completely different reasons. Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by nerve compression and arthritis is caused by inflammation and damage to the joint.

Carpal Tunnel Versus Arthritis

If you have ever had a hand or leg “go to sleep” because of pressure that temporarily cuts off the blood supply, you can get an idea of what carpal tunnel can feel like. The prickling, burning sensation can be similar to the numbness caused by compressing the median nerve, which runs in a narrow tunnel like structure formed by the bones and connective tissues from the elbow to the hand. The tendons and median nerve allow the fingers of your hand to flex and extend.

The median nerve carries impulses to and from the palm side of your hand to the index, middle, and ring fingers, as well as your thumb. If the tissues of the tunnel are irritated (often by stress caused by repetitive movements such as typing), they can swell and place pressure on the nerve.

Arthritis of the hand, however, is caused by a different mechanism, often showing up with a specific pattern in the way it attacks the joints. In the case of arthritis, the lining (synovium) of the joint itself becomes inflamed. This can occur because of osteoarthritis (also called wear and tear arthritis), or other inflammatory processes caused by a defect in the immune response, in which the body attacks otherwise healthy tissue. The symptoms of arthritis include stiffness and soreness of the joint, and frequently starts with the smaller joints of the hands.

Treatments for carpal tunnel and arthritis are also very different. Anti-inflammatory medications can help both. Rest and bracing can also help carpal tunnel, but it is not usually effective with arthritis. Carpal tunnel syndrome can often be relieved by surgery. Except for partial and joint replacement, surgery is not usually considered as a standard treatment for arthritis. Treatment for arthritis usually includes medications, exercise, and rehabilitation. Carpal tunnel may include rest, anti-inflammatory medications, surgery, exercise, and rehabilitation.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:

503-224-8399

Address
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

Joints That Are Most Commonly Affected by Arthritis

in Ankle Injuries, Arthritis, Back Pain, Foot Pain, Knee Injuries, Spine

Article featured on Healthgrades

Arthritis is a long-term (chronic) condition that causes joint inflammation. When you’re living with arthritis, a simple task, such as tying your shoe or buttoning your shirt can become a challenging one. Not only does the swelling and aching interfere with work and daily living activities, it can also be painful and sometimes debilitating.

There are more than 100 different types of arthritis, but the most common include rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disease) and osteoarthritis (a “wear-and-tear” condition related to aging, injury or obesity). Both cause joint stiffness, pain and decreased range of motion, and can affect many different joints throughout the body.

1. Knee

The knee is one of the most common joints affected by osteoarthritis. This happens when there’s a breakdown of cartilage, which cushions the ends of the bones where they meet the joints. Symptoms of knee arthritis include stiffness, swelling, and pain, which can make it hard to walk and get in and out of chairs and bed. In severe cases, osteoarthritis in the knees can lead to disability.

2. Hand

When you have arthritis in your hands, it usually includes aching, stiffness or numbness in the fingers or at the base of the thumb joint, making it difficult to pinch or grip items. Small, bony knobs may appear on the middle or end joints (those closest to the fingernails) of the fingers, which can become enlarged and gnarled. This type of arthritis in the hands seems to run in families.

3. Hip

The hip is also a common arthritis site. You may have pain and stiffness in your hip joint, but some people also notice pain in the groin, buttocks, lower back, or front or inner thigh. Or they may have pain in only one of these areas. This type of hip arthritis can affect your ability to move or bend, and make daily activities a challenge.

4. Spine, Neck and Back

Arthritis in the spine usually results in stiffness and pain in the neck or lower back, but in some cases, it may not lead to any pain at all. Arthritis changes can also cause pressure on the nerves where they exit the spinal column, leading to weakness, tingling or numbness of the arms and legs. Since these symptoms can often seem like other health conditions, always check with your doctor for a diagnosis.

5. Foot and Ankle

Arthritis can also cause swelling and pain in the foot and ankle. It most often affects the joint at the base of the big toe, which can make walking difficult. The swelling can also lead to bunions on the toes, which can sometimes make the pain and deformity of the foot worse. With rheumatoid arthritis, the same joints on both sides of the body (such as both feet or both ankles) are usually affected.

6. Elbow

Joint inflammation can also be to blame for elbow pain or loss of function. Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common type of arthritis in the elbow, and if one elbow is affected, the other likely will be, too. While elbow osteoarthritis is more common in weight-bearing joints, such as the knee and hip, it can also occur in the elbow, and is often the result of overuse or an injury, such as in the case of a tennis or baseball player.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:

503-224-8399

Address
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

Does running cause arthritis?

in Arthritis, Wellness Tips

Article featured on Harvard Health

Mounting evidence suggests the answer is no.

When I took up running in college, a friend of mine scoffed at the idea. He hated running and was convinced runners were “wearing out” their joints. He liked to say he was saving his knees for his old age.

So, was he onto something? Does running really ruin your joints, as many people believe?

Runners can get arthritis, but is running the cause?

You may think the answer is obvious. Surely, years of running (pounding pavements, or even softer surfaces) could wear out your joints, much like tires wear out after you put enough miles on them. And osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, usually affects older adults. In fact, it’s often described as age-related and degenerative. That sounds like a wear-and-tear sort of situation, right?

Maybe not. Sure, it’s easy to blame running when a person who runs regularly develops arthritis. But that blame may be misguided. The questions to ask are:

Does running damage the joints and lead to arthritis?
Does arthritis develop first and become more noticeable while running?
Is the connection more complicated? Perhaps there’s no connection between running and arthritis for most people. But maybe those destined to develop arthritis (due to their genes, for example) get it sooner if they take up running.

Extensive research over the last several decades has investigated these questions. While the answers are still not entirely clear, we’re moving closer.

What is the relationship between running and arthritis?

Mounting evidence suggests that that running does not cause osteoarthritis, or any other joint disease.

A study published in 2017 found that recreational runners had lower rates of hip and knee osteoarthritis (3.5%) compared with competitive runners (13.3%) and nonrunners (10.2%).
According to a 2018 study, the rate of hip or knee arthritis among 675 marathon runners was half the rate expected within the US population.
A 2022 analysis of 24 studies found no evidence of significant harm to the cartilage lining the knee joints on MRIs taken just after running.

These are just a few of the published medical studies on the subject. Overall, research suggests that running is an unlikely cause of arthritis — and might even be protective.

Why is it hard to study running and arthritis?

Osteoarthritis takes many years to develop. Convincing research would require a long time, perhaps a decade or more.
It’s impossible to perform an ideal study. The most powerful type of research study is a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial. Participants in these studies are assigned to a treatment group (perhaps taking a new drug) or a control group (often taking a placebo). Double-blind means neither researchers nor participants know which people are in the treatment group and which people are getting a placebo. When the treatment being studied is running, there’s no way to conduct this kind of trial.
Beware the confounders. A confounder is a factor or variable you can’t account for in a study. There may be important differences between people who run and those who don’t that have nothing to do with running. For example, runners may follow a healthier diet, maintain a healthier weight, or smoke less than nonrunners. They may differ with respect to how their joints are aligned, the strength of their ligaments, or genes that direct development of the musculoskeletal system. These factors could affect the risk of arthritis and make study results hard to interpret clearly. In fact, they may explain why some studies find that running is protective.
The effect of running may vary between people. For example, it’s possible, though not proven, that people with obesity who run regularly are at increased risk of arthritis due to the stress of excess weight on the joints.

The bottom line

Trends in recent research suggest that running does not wear out your joints. That should be reassuring for those of us who enjoy running. And if you don’t like to run, that’s fine: try to find forms of exercise that you enjoy more. Just don’t base your decision — or excuse — for not running on the idea that it will ruin your joints.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:

503-224-8399

Address
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

Arthritis Symptoms and Joint Replacement

in Arthritis, Joint Pain, Joint Replacement

Article featured on Mass General Brigham

What is Arthritis?

Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are conditions that can affect your joints and cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. Over time, this can cause cartilage damage. Cartilage is a smooth tissue that protects the movement of the joint. As arthritis progresses, the cartilage continues to break down, causing more pain and reduced range of motion.

What are common arthritis symptoms?

Common symptoms of arthritis include:

Swelling
Stiffness
Pain
Limited range of movement

Managing arthritis pain

There are nonsurgical options available if you want to reduce the pain associated with arthritis. Eating healthy foods and losing weight can be a good place to start. “One pound off the body is 4 pounds off the hip and knee. I always tell patients to celebrate when they take 1 pound off, because that’s 4 pounds off of all their joints. This makes them feel better and can help them move better too,” says Dr. Chen.

Other non-surgical treatment options include:

Over-the-counter medications, to manage the pain
Joint injections like steroids or hyaluronic gel
Low-impact strength training to strengthen the muscles to support your joints

Arthritis and joint replacement

“If your joint pain persists after trying these options, and you can’t do your daily activities, it might be time for you to get your joint replaced,” says Dr. Chen.

The most common arthritis joint replacement procedures are:

Hip replacement
Knee replacement
Partial knee replacement (depending on where your arthritis is located)

Hip replacement surgery

If you have hip arthritis, the cartilage in the ball and socket joint wears away. During a hip replacement, your surgeon makes an opening from the front, the side, or the back of your hip. They remove the ball and resurface the socket. They then place a new socket, liner, ball, and stem in your hip.

Knee replacement surgery

If you have knee arthritis, the cartilage between your thigh bone, shin bone, and kneecap wears away. During a knee replacement, your surgeon makes an opening to the front of the knee. They remove the damaged cartilage, replace it with metal, and add a plastic insert in the middle of the joint that allows your knee to glide smoothly. Depending on where your arthritis is located, your surgeon also may remove the back part of your kneecap and replace it with plastic.

Joint replacement surgery recovery

Everyone’s recovery is different, but most patients can walk with an assistive walking device immediately after their surgery. These devices can include:

Walkers
Canes
Crutches

“The most important thing to do is to move as much as possible after surgery,” Dr. Chen says. “Walking is a great option. Not only does it make your mobility better, but it also reduces your risk of blood clots.”

Following surgery, you need to do exercises either on your own or with a physical therapist. A physical therapist can develop a routine targeted to your needs to help you recover from your surgery.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:

503-224-8399

Address
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

Myth #1: Arthritis is an old-age disease and cannot affect children.

Myth #2: All joint pain is arthritis.

Myth #3: When you start experiencing joint pain, you should wait to see if it goes away on its own.

Myth #4: Arthritis symptoms cannot be improved.

Myth #5: Exercising will worsen your condition.

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Arthritis of the Neck

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Arthritis of the neck symptoms

Arthritis of the neck treatment

Arthritis of the neck risk factors

Arthritis of the neck prevention

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Symptoms of Knee Arthritis

Non-Surgical Treatments for Knee Arthritis

Surgery for Knee Arthritis

Recovering from Surgery for Knee Arthritis

Do You Need Surgery for Knee Arthritis?

Carpal Tunnel Versus Arthritis

1. Knee

2. Hand

3. Hip

4. Spine, Neck and Back

5. Foot and Ankle

6. Elbow

Runners can get arthritis, but is running the cause?

What is the relationship between running and arthritis?

Why is it hard to study running and arthritis?

The bottom line

What is Arthritis?

What are common arthritis symptoms?

Managing arthritis pain

Arthritis and joint replacement

Hip replacement surgery

Knee replacement surgery

Joint replacement surgery recovery

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