Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis where the cartilage between the bones gradually wears away. This causes the bones to rub against each other, resulting in pain and discomfort. If left untreated, osteoarthritis can become debilitating. A doctor in St. Thomas, St. Croix helps you manage your symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Dr. Jeffrey Chase and Dr. Ahmet Sayan at Virgin Island Orthopaedics & Medical Specialist offer an array of services to help you with all forms of arthritis. Do you have osteoarthritis of the hip or in another part of your body? Keep reading to learn more about this painful medical condition.
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
When you have osteoarthritis, your symptoms slowly develop over the years. Typical symptoms include pain, stiffness, lack of joint flexibility, swelling, and joint tenderness. You may even hear a popping or cracking sound when you move your hip joint.
Ways to Manage Your Osteoarthritis at Home
Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis, there are ways to manage this medical condition. Incorporating regular physical activity into your life helps to slow the progression of osteoarthritis. Low impact exercises like walking, riding a bike, tai chi, yoga, swimming, and strength training are all good choices. A doctor in St. Thomas, St. Croix can help you decide which type of exercise is best for your unique circumstances. Consult with Dr. Jeffrey Chase or Dr. Ahmet Sayan to learn more about exercises to help with your osteoarthritis.
When you're overweight, you place extra stress on your body, including your hip joints. As a result, your osteoarthritis may progress more rapidly. If you're carrying some extra pounds, strive to lose weight. Your physician can provide you with the information you need to slim down.
Treatment for Osteoarthritis
A St. Thomas, St. Croix doctor will determine the kind of treatment you need. This depends on the severity of your condition. He or she can also help you learn to manage your pain. The doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
If your hip osteoarthritis is more advanced, the doctor may recommend prescription-strength pain relievers. As a last resort, your doctor might determine that surgery is necessary. This may involve a total hip replacement if your condition severely interferes with your lifestyle.
Schedule Your Appointment
Do you have hip pain? You may have osteoarthritis. Only a doctor in St. Thomas, St. Croix can diagnose you with this medical condition. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Jeffrey Chase and Dr. Ahmet Sayan at Virgin Island Orthopaedics & Medical Specialists. Our experienced physicians can provide the right treatment plan to help you with osteoarthritis of the hip. Schedule your appointment by calling 340-714-2845 or 340-692-5000.