Osteoarthritis

Overview

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the gradual breakdown of cartilage — the protective tissue that cushions the ends of bones within a joint. As cartilage wears away, bones begin to rub against one another, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. OA most commonly affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine, and is the leading cause of musculoskeletal disability in adults worldwide.

Common Symptoms

•Joint pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest

•Morning stiffness or stiffness after periods of inactivity

•Swelling and tenderness around the affected joint

•Reduced range of motion and flexibility

•A grinding or clicking sensation (crepitus) in the joint

•Joint deformity in advanced cases

Common Causes

•Aging and cumulative joint wear over time

•Previous joint injuries (fractures, ligament tears)

•Obesity, which increases mechanical load on weight-bearing joints

•Genetic predisposition and family history

•Repetitive joint stress from occupational or athletic activities

•Joint misalignment or prior surgical history

Who May Benefit from Treatment

Adults experiencing chronic joint pain, stiffness, or functional limitations — particularly in the knees, hips, spine, or shoulders — who are seeking to delay or avoid surgery will benefit most from Echo PMR's non-surgical, evidence-based approach to OA management.

Treatment Options at Echo PMR

•Intra-articular corticosteroid injections to reduce joint inflammation and pain

•Hyaluronic acid (viscosupplementation) injections to restore joint lubrication in the knee

•Medial branch blocks and RFA for spine-related osteoarthritis pain

•SI joint injections for OA affecting the sacroiliac joint

•Genicular nerve blocks and RFA for chronic knee OA pain

•Physical therapy to strengthen supporting musculature and reduce joint load

Recovery Expectations

Osteoarthritis is a progressive condition, but its symptoms can be effectively managed for years with the right treatment plan. Many patients experience months of meaningful pain relief from a single injection, with repeat treatments available as needed. A comprehensive approach combining interventional procedures with physical therapy and lifestyle modifications offers the best long-term functional outcomes.

When to Seek Care

If joint pain is limiting your ability to walk, work, sleep, or perform daily activities — and conservative measures like rest and over-the-counter pain relievers are no longer sufficient — it is time to consult Echo PMR. Early intervention can slow functional decline and help you maintain independence longer.