Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint condition affecting millions of Americans, leading to chronic pain, stiffness and reduced mobility. As the most prevalent form of arthritis, OA can significantly impact everyday tasks—even making simple activities difficult. At SOLUTIONS Pain and Spine Doctors in Peachtree Corners, Buford & Decatur GA we specialize in offering comprehensive osteoarthritis treatments ranging from conservative approaches to advanced pain management solutions.
Our pain management team in Peachtree Corners, Buford, Decatur, GA and the surrounding area are always here for our patients looking for relief.
Understanding Osteoarthritis’ Impact
Recent research by the U.S. Pain Foundation highlights the widespread nature of osteoarthritis:
- 58% of patients reported daily pain scores of 7 or higher on a scale from 1-10.
- 9-10% of patients report their daily pain as extreme.
- 70% of individuals living with osteoarthritis are disabled as a result.
- 73% of patients living with osteoarthritis-related pain have had the condition for more than 10 years.
These findings demonstrate the urgent need for effective treatment strategies to enhance patients’ quality of life.
Conservative Treatment Options Available
Early-stage osteoarthritis may be treated effectively through noninvasive therapies. Common options of conservative care treatment for early-stage arthritis may include:
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy has been recommended by 86% of OA patients to strengthen muscles around the joints, increase flexibility and decrease pain.
- Hot and Cold Therapy: Used by approximately 80% of patients, switching heat with cold can effectively ease inflammation and provide temporary relief.
- Exercise: Engaging in low-impact activities such as swimming, cycling, or yoga can help maintain joint function while reducing stiffness.
- Topical Agents: Topical medications such as capsaicin or menthol-based creams can provide localized pain relief.
Medication-Based Pain Management Solutions
When conservative therapies alone are insufficient to manage osteoarthritis symptoms, medication may play an invaluable role. Commonly used medications include:
- NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): As many as 82% of OA patients take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Opioids: Although used with caution, 93% of osteoarthritis patients have used opioids at some point for pain relief. Learn more about opioids and pain management here.
- Muscle Relaxers: Used by over 80% of patients, muscle relaxants are used to relieve muscle tension associated with joint pain.
Advanced Pain Management Solutions
For those suffering from severe osteoarthritis pain and failing to find relief through other therapies, advanced pain management techniques may be necessary. At SOLUTIONS Pain and Spine Doctors, we provide several cutting-edge procedures such as:
- Epidural Injections: Epidural injections have become the treatment of choice for 61% of patients to reduce inflammation and provide long-term pain relief.
- Trigger Point Injections: Administered directly into targeted muscle areas, trigger point injections are effective against pain caused by spasms and tension in muscles.
- Nerve Blocks: Nerve blocks are utilized by 49% of patients and can provide temporary or long-term pain relief by interfering with pain signals.
- Spinal Fusion Surgery: Commonly performed on more severe cases (26% of patients), spinal fusion can help stabilize and alleviate chronic back pain.
Finding an Osteoarthritis Treatment Plan that Works for You
Every osteoarthritis patient’s journey is unique, with treatment plans tailored specifically to them depending on factors like their symptoms severity, medical history and lifestyle goals. At SOLUTIONS Pain and Spine Doctors of Peachtree Corners, Buford, and Decatur in Georgia we work closely with our patients to develop personalized plans tailored specifically to fit your needs.
Check Out This Osteoarthritis Fact Sheet Now
Download this Osteoarthritis Fact Sheet by the US Pain Foundation right here to gain insight into osteoarthritis and available treatment options, as well as gain information to valuable resource featuring information about current research, treatment approaches and self-care techniques that can help take charge of joint health.
If you or a loved one is living with osteoarthritis, don’t put off seeking relief. Reach out to SOLUTIONS Pain and Spine Doctors right away so we can arrange an initial consultation and explore all available pain management options that might suit you best. Our team is committed to helping restore mobility, reduce discomfort and enhance quality of life for each of our patients!
Peachtree Corners, GA: 3780 Holcomb Bridge Rd, Suite D-1, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092
Buford, GA: 3331 Hamilton Mill Road, Suite 1102, Buford, GA 30519
Decatur, GA: 4296 Memorial Dr. Ste C1, Decatur, GA30032
New patient phone number: 470-275-3626