Osteoarthritis is damage to the protective padding (articular cartilage) on the ends of bones in joints. Above is a picture of the different stages of knee osteoarthritis.

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Common symptoms of osteoarthritis include pain, swelling and stiffness.

 

Common joints affected include the knee, hip, ankle, foot, spine, shoulder, elbow and wrist.

 

Osteoarthritis is also referred to as osteoarthrosis and degenerative on imaging reports. We all develop some degeneration in our joints as we age which is normal, however osteoarthritis can be accelerated through injury to the joint, autoimmune conditions such as Rheumatoid Arthritis or by being overweight.

 

There has been lots of research performed to try and heal damaged cartilage with some good gains but no silver bullet. However if you have osteoarthritis it doesn’t have to control your life, your symptoms can be managed and you can still lead an active lifestyle. The right sort of exercise is actually beneficial for treating symptoms of osteoarthritis – think of it as “motion is lotion”.

 

There are lots of products and services claiming to help people with osteoarthritis but many have no evidence. Dr Low uses some evidence-based treatments including nSTRIDE injections and Viscosupplementation for knee osteoarthritis.

 

During your appointment you can expect the following from Dr Low during your assessment:
 

History taking where you will be asked several questions related to your osteoarthritis. The type of questions you can expect during this consultation include:

- History of the pain, including location, severity, radiation, things that make the pain worse or better

- Previous related injuries

- Occupational or Sporting activities

- Past medical history including any medications

- Previous treatments

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A physical examination of the painful region as well as other areas of the body if indicated such as lower back, hips and ankles.

If needed to help reach a diagnosis, investigations may be required such as x-rays, MRIs or blood tests. 

A diagnosis with explanation in laymans terms (non-medical language that is easy to understand).

A management plan will then be developed in conjunction with the patient. Management may consist of:

- education of the condition and why it occurred

- advice on what to do and what to avoid making the condition worse

- exercise programs

- nSTRIDE injections or Viscosupplementation

- return to sport or activity programs

- if required referral to another health professional (physio, exercise physiologist, podiatrist)

 

Dr Low helps patients with non-surgical management. However having been an Orthopaedic Surgical assistant for several years he is well informed about the different surgical options for various conditions and can offer appropriate advice about what is involved with specific surgical procedures. He can provide a balanced view on both the non-surgical and surgical pathways available.

 

It is recommended you make an appointment with Dr Low if you are experiencing pain so he can immediately diagnose the cause of the problem and provide you with accurate management to help you with your symptoms as soon as possible. NO GP REFERRAL REQUIRED.