Arthritis Programs

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and most commonly occurring in the knee, hip and shoulder joints. OA is more commonly sen in older populations; but younger population can also develop OA as a result of joint injury or malformation. OA primarily affects the cartilage, the hard, slippery tissue covers the end of the bones in the joints. In OA, the surface layer of the cartilage breaks down and wears away. People with OA usually experience joint pain, stuffiness, swelling and limited motion of the joints.

How is OA treated?

There are many ways to treat OA starting with heat and over the counter medications like Ibuprofen and Tylenol. When this fails your doctor can prescribe medications, physical therapy and splints. In some cases it may be necessary to try join injections and eventually may require surgical joint replacements.

How Can We Help?

The Rochester Clinic utilizes a team approach to identify the root cause and severity of your OA and develop a treatment plan specifically designed for you to treat the root cause. We utilize all reasonable OA treatment options and specialize in the therapeutic injections of joints using ultrasound needle guidance. Precision placement means better results and less pain.

Why consider joint injection treatments?

Joint injections can significantly improve your quality of life. When combined with other effective treatments, injections can help you delay or even avoid surgery. They can be done with several types of effective medicine.

  • Steroids reduce inflammations and pain.
  • Hyaluronic acid (HA) is naturally present in the fluid surrounding the joints. Secretion of HA gradually decreases as age increases. HA injections could provide shock absorption, joint lubrication, anti-inflammatory effects, cartilage protection and prevent further deterioration of the cartilage.
  • Platelet rich plasma (PRP) contains concentrates of growth factors to enhance healing of various injuries. Injections are usually effective in pain and stiffness relief, but the length of relief may vary. OA. Early interventions with various conservative treatments could help patient avoid joint replacement surgeries.

The Top 5 Must-Know Facts About Managing Your Osteoarthritis

1. It’s Not Just Cartilage Loss
What we know about what causes joint pain.
2. You Can’t See Pain on an X-Ray
Only you know how much joint pain you’re in.
3. There is No Single Known Cause or Cure
Osteoarthritis joint pain needs to be actively managed.
4. More Weight Can Mean More Pain
Maintaining a healthy weight is key.
5. Exercise is Crucial at Any Stage
Motion is lotion for joint with osteoarthritis.

Customer Testimonials

“Dr. Harman is the most professional, empathetic, informative, and personable person I have encountered in my 62 years. I would trust him with my life as well as that of my family. He is the best!”

DH

“They have all been very helpful and very nice. I don’t feel like I am being judged by anyone for my illness and I greatly appreciate that. Thank you.”

HD

“They helped me get my life back without controlling every aspect of my life. Without this facility I’m not sure where I would be right now.”

JH