Milwaukee's Osteoarthritis Pain Management

Normally, when two bones come together to form a joint, the ends of these bones are covered with a material called hyaline cartilage. This cartilage is very strong and helps the bones glide on one another when the joint moves. Over time, particularly when a lot of stress has been placed on the joint, the cartilage begins to wear down. In severe cases, the cartilage is actually worn away and you are left with bone rubbing against bone. This will result in pain and inflammation. Typically, osteoarthritis targets are feet, knees, hips, hands and the spine. When osteoarthritis affects the spine, it usually affects the discs and facet joints.

If you are among the millions who suffer from osteoarthritis we do not have to tell you about pain. Nagging, persistent and at times unbearable pain is a way of life for you. For most of us, the search for pain relief is the ultimate goal.

For those who live with this debilitating disease, you are all too familiar with what the doctors have to say. You start by taking "over-the-counter" remedies (NSAIDS) to get temporary relief, but they may cause associated stomach ulcers or even liver damage if you take for long periods of time. Secondly, doctors may take more extreme steps by ordering cortisone (steroid) injections and/or prescribing COX-2 inhibitors (Vioxx, Celebrex, etc,) to decrease inflammation and give some pain relief. With these types of treatment, you are more prone to dangerous side effects like heart attacks and strokes and do nothing to treat the core of the problem. Thirdly, when you are in a severe stage of OA you will be referred to an orthopaedic surgeon who recommends a joint replacement and then physical therapy for a rehabilitation program.

First and foremost, we are seeking pain relief but also to address the medical problem by reducing, reversing or ending the progression of your OA. Follow these 4 tips to fight your OA:

• Keep your weight under control - lowering your weight will decrease the compression forces on your joint. Proper diet for weight loss is important
• Exercise with low impact activities to burn calories (bike, pool, etc.)
• Consult a physical therapist for proper treatment, exercise and bracing
• Take supplements to promote and improve the health of your joints - Glucosamine, chondroitin, boswellin, blomelaine, omega 3&6, yucca, manganese ascorbate and vitamin A, C, and E. PROCare Physical Therapy of Milwaukee has many of these supplements available for purchase in our clinic.