Osteoarthritis Treatment in Dallas
Our Specialists Treat Osteoarthritis in Texas
If your joints ache more than they used to, you’re not alone. Osteoarthritis affects millions of people, and it often worsens with age. But the good news is that you don’t have to live with the pain. Spine Vue helps patients in Houston and throughout Texas understand their osteoarthritis and find treatments that work. Below, we explain what osteoarthritis is, why it happens, and what you can do about it.
What Is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. It happens when the cartilage that cushions your joints starts to wear down. Cartilage acts like a shock absorber between your bones. When it breaks down, your bones may rub together, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. This condition can affect any joint, but it’s most common in the:
- Knees – Weight-bearing joints are prone to a lot of daily wear and tear.
- Hips – These are major joints that support your body weight.
- Hands – The fingers and base of the thumb are especially susceptible.
- Spine – The neck and lower back are typical pain points.
Recognizing Osteoarthritis Symptoms
Osteoarthritis symptoms usually build slowly. They often start mild and become more noticeable over months or years. Common signs include:
- Joint Pain – This includes aching or soreness during or after movement.
- Stiffness – This is usually most evident first thing in the morning or after sitting for a while.
- Swelling – This is caused by inflammation around the joint.
- Reduced Flexibility – You may have trouble shifting the joint through its full range of motion.
- Grating Feeling – Some people feel or hear a popping or crackling sound when moving the joint.
What Causes Osteoarthritis?
There isn’t one single cause of osteoarthritis. Instead, it usually develops from a mix of factors that wear down cartilage over time, such as:
- Age-Related Wear and Tear – Cartilage naturally breaks down with age.
- Joint Injuries – Past injuries can raise your risk later in life.
- Repetitive Stress – Jobs or hobbies that involve repeated joint movements can accelerate wear on joints.
- Genetics – Some people are more likely to develop osteoarthritis because of their family history.
Who’s at Risk for Osteoarthritis?
While anyone can develop osteoarthritis, some people face a higher risk. You may be more likely to develop it if you:
- Are Over Age 50 – Risk increases with age.
- Are Overweight – Extra weight puts more pressure on weight-bearing joints.
- Have a Family History – Genetics can play a role.
- Have Had Joint Injuries – Previous injuries can lead to problems years later.
- Work Physically Demanding Jobs – Repetitive motions can increase joint wear.
How to Treat Osteoarthritis
The right treatment for osteoarthritis depends on your symptoms, your lifestyle, and how much the condition affects your daily life. Spine Vue offers several options to help manage osteoarthritis pain.
Radiofrequency Ablation for Osteoarthritis Pain
One effective treatment for osteoarthritis pain relief is radiofrequency ablation (RFA). This procedure uses heat generated by radio waves to target the specific nerves sending pain signals from the joint. By calming those nerves, RFA can provide long-lasting pain relief without surgery.
Heat, Cold, and Other Non-Medication Treatments
Not every osteoarthritis therapy involves a procedure. These simple, non-medication treatments can also make a big difference:
- Heat Therapy – Heat helps relax muscles and improve blood flow to stiff joints.
- Cold Therapy – This reduces swelling and numbs sharp pain.
- Physical Therapy – We can help you strengthen muscles around the joint for better support.
- Low-Impact Exercise – Activities like swimming and walking keep joints moving without added strain.
- Weight Management – Reducing extra weight can ease pressure on painful joints.
When You Should See a Doctor for Osteoarthritis
Catching osteoarthritis early can help you find effective treatment options before symptoms get worse. See a doctor if you notice:
- Pain that doesn’t go away
- Joint stiffness that limits movement
- Swelling that doesn’t improve
- Pain that affects your sleep or mood
Spine Vue Is a Leader in Osteoarthritis Treatment
Spine Vue specializes in helping Texans find real relief from osteoarthritis pain. Our team uses advanced treatments alongside personalized care plans for every patient. We’ll take the time to understand your specific symptoms so that we can recommend a treatment for osteoarthritis that fits your life.
FAQ About Osteoarthritis
The best treatment depends on your symptoms and their severity. Many patients find relief through a combination of physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and procedures such as radiofrequency ablation.
There’s currently no cure for osteoarthritis, but many treatments can reduce pain and improve movement.
Relief from radiofrequency ablation can last anywhere from six months to more than a year, depending on the patient.
Yes. Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or biking can help strengthen muscles and support painful joints.
Contact Our Doctors in Texas Today
Spine Vue is here to help patients throughout Texas find lasting relief from osteoarthritis with treatments tailored to their needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.