If the pain goes away in a few days, you may have osteoarthritis – the gradual wearing away of the cartilage in your joints. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, and it usually affects your weight bearing joints: your hips, knees, ankles and feet.

In addition to pain and stiffness, the symptoms include tenderness, loss of flexibility and a grating sensation when you use the joint.  “Unfortunately, there are no cures for osteoarthritis, and it will gradually get worse,” says Michael C. Kolczun II, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon who practices at Lakewood Hospital. “However, it is possible to manage your arthritis, gain control over your symptoms and remain active.”

“First and foremost,” says Dr. Kolczun, “see your family doctor if you have swelling or stiffness in your joints, particularly if it lasts for two weeks or more. Your doctor may recommend medications, physical therapy and/or exercise programs to relieve your pain.

For those with mild-to-moderate pain, over-the-counter medication can relieve pain and/or reduce inflammation. Your doctor also may recommend prescription medications, which may include anti-inflammatories, painkillers or cortisone shots.”

In addition, you may want to ask for a referral to a physical therapist to create an individual exercise program to strengthen the muscles around your joints, increase your range of motion and reduce pain. “Try to avoid stressing your joints,” says Dr. Kolczun. “Find new ways or tools to help you. An occupational therapist can help develop solutions for everyday tasks.”

However, if your joint is severely damaged by arthritis or injury, and conservative treatments have not allowed you to return to your normal activities of daily living without pain, you may want to be referred to an orthopaedic specialist.

Should you need a joint replacement, there are many options available today. The most common joint replacements are for the hip and knee, but technology now allows implants to replace your – shoulder, elbow, finger or ankle joints. Other procedures, such as realigning bones or fusing them, are also options. Your surgeon will help determine the right option for you, based on the level of damage to your joint.

“Today, there are more ways than ever before to help people suffering from osteoarthritis resume an active, pain-free lifestyle,” Dr. Kolczun says.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kolczun, please call 440.204.7800.


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