Arthritis Treatment in Orlando, FL

Millions of people require treatment for arthritis, an inflammatory joint condition that causes pain, swelling, and stiffness. The most common type is osteoarthritis, which is often age-related. Osteoarthritis causes protective joint cartilage to break down and wear away, leading to painful bone-on-bone contact that can sometimes limit mobility.

Some treatment options for arthritis include:

Pain-Relieving Medications

In most cases, arthritis treatment begins with pain medication. For mild to moderate discomfort, an over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as ibuprofen may be sufficient. A topical analgesic can also be helpful. If further relief is needed, a doctor may prescribe a stronger medication.

Weight Loss & Exercise

Because excess body weight can strain weight-bearing joints, such as the knees, weight loss is often recommended as part of an arthritis treatment plan. In addition to promoting weight loss and weight maintenance, regular physical activity can help strengthen the muscles that support arthritic joints and thereby improve arthritis symptoms. Walking and swimming are excellent options that are not only effective but also gentle on the joints.

Hot/Cold Therapy

Hot and cold therapy can be helpful for arthritis treatment, especially if swelling or stiffness is present. A cold compress or ice pack can be applied to a painful joint as needed to numb localized pain and reduce inflammation. Likewise, a heating pad can be applied to a stiff joint to relax the surrounding muscles and ease spasms.

Corticosteroids

For very severe arthritis pain, a doctor may prescribe a corticosteroid. This powerful anti-inflammatory drug can be injected directly into a painful joint or taken orally in pill form to quickly reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

If you’re a member of Optimum Direct Care in Orlando, FL, Dr. Toni “Muzzi” Muzzonigro can help you find an arthritis treatment plan that works for you. Contact us today to learn more or inquire about our membership benefits.

“When I left my corporate job to start my own business, one of many new challenges was finding quality health care. When I was starting to look for a new Primary Care Doctor, a peer recommended Direct Primary Care. I did some research and found Dr. Muzzi. In the years leading up to finding Dr. Muzzi, the way I think about my health evolved to fit a more modern view of health and science with a focus on overall wellness and preventative medicine. I was surprised and delighted on my first visit to find Dr. Muzzi not only shared this view, but was practicing medicine in this way. Focusing on my overall wellness rather than treating symptoms has improved my quality of life and undoubtedly add quality years to my life. Dr. Muzzi knows me. She knows what I do for work, where I travel, sports and activities, our pets, what I wear to Burning Man and even knows my Dad (who approves!). Taken at face value, this may seem like a cute note to show that we’re friendly. But this depth of knowledge is organically woven into the care she provides every time we speak and my health is better for it. I never imagined Dr. Muzzi existed before I found her. Now, I can’t picture a future of my healthcare without her. If the traditional Doctor / Patient relationship makes you feel like you’re stuck in I4 traffic (frustrated & certain no one will ever fix it) and you want to change that, you’re in the right place.”
Bill F.

Join Now!