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Joint Replacement

Stevens Point Orthopedics' specialists and surgeons are experts at treating arthritis.
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Arthritis is one of the most common orthopedic conditions. Almost everyone encounters arthritis as they age, experiencing anything from occasional discomfort to complete debilitation. There are a variety of options for treating arthritis.

Your body is comprised of joints, where two or more bones meet and move. These bony surfaces are covered by hard cartilage and should ideally be smooth. Over time, this hard cartilage can have defects or thin due to wear and tear, disease, or an injury. It can be painful, limit motion, and cause a click or catch, depending on its location.

Arthritic pain is achy and is typically worse in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest. Its pain also can make it difficult if not impossible to be active.

Suffering from arthritis pain? Contact us to learn about treatment options.

Evaluating Arthritis Pain

Evaluation starts with you giving us a history of your problem: when and how it started, how it feels, and which treatments you have tried. We also ask you about other medical conditions that may contribute to your pain. We do a physical exam to test your joint structures, check your range of motion and strength, and do tests to uncover specific problems. Sometimes we order X-rays to show fractures, spurs, and changes from arthritis.

Treating Arthritis Pain

Strategies for treating arthritis depend on the diagnosis and severity of your symptoms.

Lifestyle modifications, include resting the affected joint, changing daily activities to avoid painful situations, riding an exercise bike with no resistance to smooth and polish the joint, and doing exercises to strengthen weak muscles.
Medications can help with arthritis. Non-steroidal medications (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can relieve inflammation. For severe inflammation, a short burst of a steroid medication may be an option. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can also help control pain.
Cortisone injections target a specific location in your joint using a powerful anti-inflammatory medication.
Viscosupplementation injections help lubricate the knee.
Physical therapy focuses on getting your muscles and joints to work properly together when you move. Physical therapists can identify and address muscle imbalances through corrective exercises. They may give you a series of take-home exercises to help return you to regular activities pain-free.
Unloader Braces can help with arthritis pain in the knee if only one portion of the knee is problematic.
Surgery may be the next option for arthritis if all other treatment options have been exhausted. Each joint has its own options for replacement surgeries –fortunately, Stevens Point Orthopedics has providers who specialize in each option.

Our Experts Are Ready To Help.

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