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.