Osteoarthritis Specialist

Osteoarthritis can make it hard to get through your normal daily routines without pain and can limit your ability to enjoy each and every day. Family medicine physician Patrick Moore, MD, of Moore Healthcare Group in Lafayette, Louisiana, understands the challenges that this common joint condition creates, and offers treatments that can help. To learn more about osteoarthritis, call the office to schedule an appointment or book online today. 

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most common chronic joint condition, and is also commonly called degenerative arthritis, degenerative joint disease, or wear-and-tear arthritis. It develops when the cartilage that covers the ends of your bones begins to wear away, leaving the bones to create friction when they rub together. 

Any joint can develop osteoarthritis, but the condition is more common in:

• Shoulders 
• Spine 
• Hips
• Knees
• Fingers
• Hands

Older people have a higher risk of developing osteoarthritis, but it’s not uncommon among people in early or middle adulthood. People with a family history of the condition, who are obese, or who have occupations or habits that place strain on their joints have a higher risk of developing osteoarthritis. 

What are some signs I might have osteoarthritis?

Knowing the signs of osteoarthritis can help you decide when to come in for a diagnostic assessment. Some of the symptoms of this common form of arthritis include:

• Joint pain
• Stiff joints
• Inflammation
• Limited flexibility or mobility in the joint
• Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when you move the joint
• Bone spurs

In the early stages of osteoarthritis, these changes can be minor, and often aren’t a significant source of concern. As the condition progresses, however, pain and other symptoms will become more intense. 

It’s important to listen to the messages your body is sending. Early treatment can slow the progression of joint disease, and in many cases, avoid or postpone the need for surgical intervention. 

Are there treatments that can help with osteoarthritis?

Fortunately, multiple treatments can help with osteoarthritis. Medications might play a role in your treatment plan, including certain over-the-counter pain relievers and prescription medicines. 

Physical therapy may also be a great way to improve osteoarthritis symptoms. Some people find relief through cortisone joint injections, which help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain within the damaged joint. 

Medical marijuana is approved for use in treating osteoarthritis. Dr. Moore can discuss this approach with you in detail and help you decide the best path forward. 

It’s important to treat osteoarthritis, as joint pain can prevent you from engaging in healthy, physical activity and limit your mobility and independence. 

To learn more about osteoarthritis, call Moore Healthcare Group or book an appointment online today.