In our Traumatology and Orthopedics service we control osteoarthritis with medication, procedures, surgical treatments and other minimally invasive alternatives. To delay its progress, we apply joint regeneration or preservation therapy, making use of platelet-rich plasma, chondrocyte cultures, infiltrations of growth factors, among other modern procedures. In advanced cases, we use joint replacements, achieving excellent results”, explains Dr. Eduardo Pastor, renowned traumatologist and orthopedics-surgeon and director of the Ricardo Palma trauma group.

What is osteoarthritis?

It is a chronic and degenerative disease, by which the articular cartilages begin to lose their shape and function, causing pain of varying magnitude, according to its stage, and deformation of the affected joint.

Who is mostly affected by it?

It is more common in women, and affects the quality of life and mobility of the patient. Around 500 million people in the world suffer from osteoarthritis, and it is estimated that 50% of them are older than 60 years old.

What are its symptoms?

• Joint pain during movement or even at rest
• Loss of flexibility and normal range of motion
• Joint stiffness, usually in the morning or when resting for a long time and beginning to move
• Many times, the affected joints do not evidence swelling, but they are very sensitive to pressure or palpation
• Some cases evidence deformity of the joint and a bony prominence, especially in the knee
• Cracking sensation in the affected joint, with or without pain

Our specialist recommends:

• Go to a highly trained specialist and do not self-medicate. Many patients come to the office with gastric or kidney problems, due to taking anti-inflammatory drugs in excess
• Maintain an adequate weight
• Avoid practicing extreme sports that can affect the hips or knees. Swimming, cycling and sports that do not cause joint impact are more recommended

Remember, early diagnosis of osteoarthritis is essential, as it will help to treat it in a timely manner, in order to preserve the joint and avoid the need for joint replacement surgery.

Dr. Eduardo Pastor
Traumatologist and orthopedics-surgeon at Clínica Ricardo Palma