Arthritis is a common condition characterized by inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Orthopedic doctors are specialists who play a central role in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of various forms of arthritis, offering a range of approaches from conservative therapies to surgical interventions.
The Role of Orthopedic Doctors in Arthritis Management
Orthopedic doctors specialize in the musculoskeletal system (bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles). They diagnose and manage conditions affecting these structures’ function and mobility. For arthritis, orthopedists assess joint damage, identify the specific type, and develop tailored treatment plans.
Common types of arthritis frequently managed by orthopedic doctors include osteoarthritis, often called “wear-and-tear” arthritis from cartilage breakdown. They also collaborate with rheumatologists in managing inflammatory arthritis types like rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks joint tissues. Post-traumatic arthritis, developing after a joint injury, is also managed. Orthopedic specialists utilize physical examinations, imaging (X-rays, MRI scans), and sometimes laboratory tests to diagnose and determine severity.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Orthopedic doctors often prioritize non-surgical methods as the first line of treatment for arthritis to alleviate symptoms and slow progression. Physical therapy involves customized exercises to improve joint flexibility, strengthen surrounding muscles, and enhance overall mobility. This reduces joint stress and pain.
Medication management is another common approach, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation. Corticosteroid injections, often called cortisone shots, deliver powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly into the affected joint, providing pain relief for weeks to months. Viscosupplementation, particularly for knee arthritis, involves injecting hyaluronic acid into the joint to improve lubrication and shock absorption, offering pain relief for several months.
Lifestyle modifications are also emphasized, such as weight management to reduce stress on weight-bearing joints. Specific exercise recommendations, often low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or cycling, help maintain joint health and improve strength. Assistive devices, including braces, canes, or shoe inserts, provide support and reduce strain on affected joints during daily activities.
Surgical Treatment Options
When non-surgical treatments no longer provide adequate relief, orthopedic doctors may recommend surgical interventions for arthritis. Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure involving a small incision to insert a camera and instruments to visualize and address joint issues. While historically used for arthritis, recent research suggests its role in long-term osteoarthritis relief is limited, though it may address specific issues like torn menisci.
Osteotomy involves cutting and reshaping a bone, in the tibia or femur, to realign the joint and shift weight away from damaged cartilage. This procedure is typically considered for younger patients with early-stage osteoarthritis affecting only one side of a joint, aiming to preserve the natural joint and delay joint replacement.
Joint replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, is a definitive treatment for advanced arthritis, removing damaged joint surfaces and replacing them with artificial components. Common replacements include hip, knee, and shoulder. These procedures aim to relieve severe pain, restore function, and improve quality of life when other treatments fail.
When to Seek Orthopedic Consultation
It is advisable to consult an orthopedic doctor if you experience persistent joint pain lasting more than a few weeks, especially if not improving with rest or over-the-counter remedies. Other signs include chronic stiffness, swelling around a joint, or noticeable loss of motion or difficulty with daily tasks like walking or bending. If a joint feels unstable, warm, or red, it warrants evaluation.
During an initial consultation, the orthopedic doctor typically conducts a physical examination, reviews medical history, and may order imaging (X-rays, MRI scans) to assess the joint and confirm diagnosis. Early intervention can help manage symptoms, slow arthritis progression, and improve long-term outcomes.