Stiff Joints? Receive Osteoarthritis Treatment in New Albany, IN

You don’t have to live with chronic joint pain or stiffness. Instead, you can receive effective osteoarthritis treatment from an experienced specialist at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic in New Albany, Indiana. Our board-certified physicians, physical therapists, and other medical professionals work together to provide a full range of the latest treatment options for osteoarthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions. We proudly take a personalized approach to orthopedic care.

What Causes Osteoarthritis?

Characterized by a gradual thinning of the protective cartilage that cushions a joint, osteoarthritis can result from age-related degeneration, participation in high-impact sports, overexertion of a joint, cumulative wear and tear, or a sedentary lifestyle. Common osteoarthritis symptoms that may require treatment include:

• Pain
• Inflammation
• Stiffness
• Weakness
• Restricted mobility

There is no cure for degenerative joint disease, which can affect any joint in the body, particularly the knees, hips, spine, and hands. There is also no way to prevent it. However, an orthopedic specialist at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic can develop a customized osteoarthritis treatment plan to help protect your damaged joints and relieve your symptoms.

Exercise Is a Key Component of Osteoarthritis Treatment

Many people with osteoarthritis benefit from moderate physical activity. Some options to consider include:

• Range-of-motion exercises, such as arm raises and shoulder rolls, which can reduce stiffness and increase flexibility
• Strengthening exercises, such as weight training, which can strengthen the muscles that support arthritic joints
• Low-impact aerobic exercises, such as walking, swimming, and cycling, which can promote weight loss and weight maintenance to lessen the burdens on damaged joints
• Body awareness exercises, such as gentle yoga poses and tai chi, which can help prevent falls—and further joint damage—by improving posture, balance, and coordination

If needed, other forms of osteoarthritis treatment include medication, hot/cold therapy, cortisone injections, and joint replacement surgery.

To learn more about osteoarthritis treatment at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic, or to schedule a consultation with an orthopedist in New Albany, IN, contact us today.