OSTEOARTHRITIS

Our expert doctors in Red Deer, AB are trained to help you recover from pain and dysfunction caused by osteoarthritis (OA), also known as degenerative joint disease osteoarthritis. OA is the most common form of arthritis and a condition we frequently treat. Osteoarthritis signs include joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving, all of which result from the breakdown of cartilage that cushions and protects the bones. This "wear and tear" process can lead to inflammation, making it hard to perform everyday activities. Let us help you manage and relieve your OA symptoms with personalized care.

Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in your body and is typically classified into two different categories:

Primary Osteoarthritis:

  • This is the most common type of osteoarthritis, often caused by the "wear and tear" that comes with aging.

  • As cartilage breaks down over time, it leads to more friction in the joints, causing pain and inflammation.

Secondary Osteoarthritis:

This is typically a result of a prior joint complication such as:

  • Prior sports injury or trauma 

  • Inflammatory conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis

  • Obesity

  • Hypermobility conditions- Ehlers Danlos Syndrome

  • Generalized immobility or inactivity

SYMPTOMS

It is important to note that although someone may have an x-ray showing signs of osteoarthritis, they may not always experience symptoms. However, some of the more common symptoms associated with this disease include:

  • Swelling

  • Pain and stiffness

  • Reduced range of motion 

  • Bone spurs

  • Pain that increases throughout the day

Osteoarthritis most often affects the knees, hips, spine, and hands. Symptoms can vary based on the joint, and there are several treatment options. OA is usually diagnosed through a history check, physical exam, and X-rays, with MRIs used for more detailed imaging.

KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common condition that causes pain, stiffness, and limited movement. It’s often seen in older adults and can make everyday activities harder. It’s usually diagnosed with X-rays and by checking for symptoms during a physical exam.

TREATMENT

  1. Exercise Therapy: Focused rehab helps improve stability and movement in the knee, reducing pain and limitations from knee OA. At Horizon Joint and Wellness, we’re here to help you reach your goals with ongoing support and advice.

  2. Joint Injections: We offer various injections like PRP, Hyaluronic acid, cortisone, and prolotherapy to help ease knee OA pain.

  3. Education: We teach the importance of maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on the knee and provide strategies to help you stay active.

  4. Bracing: Custom braces can offer support and reduce stress on the knee.

  5. Pain Medication: While we focus on non-medication methods, NSAIDs may be used in some cases to manage pain.

  6. Functional Training: Our team in Red Deer, AB will guide you from basic rehab to a more active program, helping optimize joint health and function.