Tackling Osteoarthritis Like the Eagles: A Winning Game Plan for Your Joints
In the Philadelphia area we know a thing or two about grit, resilience and teamwork- just ask the Eagles. When it comes to joint pain from osteoarthritis, that same game plan applies: strategy, discipline and a commitment to staying active.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, affecting over 32 million Americans. It’s often called the “wear-and-tear” arthritis, but there’s more to the story. OA happens when the smooth cartilage that cushions your joints gradually breaks down, leading to stiffness, swelling and pain. OA most commonly affects the knees, hips, hands and spine. However, with the correct approach, you can stay mobile and keep doing the activities you love.
Understanding the Playbook: What’s Happening in Your Joints
In a healthy joint, cartilage acts as your natural shock absorber, helping bones glide smoothly. Fun fact: healthy cartilage is more slippery than ice! Over time- or after injuries- the cartilage can thin and roughen, leading to friction and inflammation. The body sometimes forms bone spurs (osteophytes) as a result, making movement even less fluid. Unfortunately, there are no treatment options to restore cartilage to its former glory, but with the right “training plan” you can slow its progression.
The Risk Factors: Scouting the Opposition
Age plays a role, but it’s not the only factor. Old sports injuries (like that high school knee sprain), repetitive motion at work or from hobbies, extra body weight or a family history of certain types of arthritis can all raise your risk. Even if you’re no longer running routes on the field, those past stresses on your joints add up over time.
Building Your Game Plan: How to Manage Osteoarthritis
Just like a football team prepares for every play, managing OA requires a strategic approach:
Stay active: Low-impact exercises- like swimming, cycling, or walking- help keep your joints flexible, as well as strengthen stabilizer muscles.
Physical therapy: Targeted exercises can improve strength and balance, protecting your joints like a strong offensive line.
Weight management: Even modest weight loss can take serious pressure off your knees and hips. One study showed an average of an 8.3% weight reduction resulted in significant improvements in pain scores for most participants.
Injections: From cortisone (steroid) to platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and trigger point injections (needling), personalized options are available at Core Family Practice’s sports medicine clinic to help keep you moving and pain free.
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re cheering on the Birds at Lincoln Financial Field or out for a jog on a crisp fall morning, osteoarthritis doesn’t have to sideline you. With early intervention and a tailored game script, our board-certified sports medicine physician, Dr. Richard Francesco, can help you stay active and play your best season yet.
