Osteoarthritis

UMass Memorial Health rheumatologists handle your joints with care. They’re experts at diagnosing and treating osteoarthritis. First, we work to address the pain and manage the disease with noninvasive methods. If these aren’t successful, we may recommend surgery. We discuss your treatment and progress with you at every step so you feel confident in your care.

What Is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a disease that breaks down tissue in joints. It is the most common type of arthritis and usually appears in people aged 40 and older.

You may think of osteoarthritis as a result of aging, but there are other factors as well, including:

• Biochemical changes that lead to cartilage loss
• Genetics
• Muscle weakness
• Physical stress on the joint

Osteoarthritis Symptoms

Common symptoms of osteoarthritis include pain, swelling and stiffness in the affected joint. Your joints may swell up, causing a grinding noise and sensation when moved. Sometimes bone enlargement can also be seen and felt in the joints.

The most common joints affected by osteoarthritis include:

• Feet 
• Finger knuckles
• Hips
• Knees
• Lower spine
• Neck

Nonsurgical Osteoarthritis Treatment

We cannot stop or reverse osteoarthritis. But there are many nonsurgical ways to improve your symptoms. Your team discusses your treatment options and develops a care plan that meets your needs. We may recommend:

• Strengthening muscles near the impacted joint
• Weight loss when osteoarthritis presents itself in weight-bearing joints
• Using acetaminophen or anti-inflammatory medications
• Corticosteroid or other injection