The diagnosis of Osteoarthritis is often delivered as a final decree.
The generally accepted course is to manage the pain with oral anti-inflammatories until it’s time for orthopedic surgery. Failing that there are a host of organic lotions and breaking science potions, unimaginable injectables or new-fangled variations on light therapy all claiming to have been discovered in a dark medical library long forgotten.
Most are remarkably expensive, but for a limited time only available for a diminished price and accompanied by a host of glowing testimonial endorsements.
So is that it? The final whistle blown.
Following our last Blog on bumps on the top of the foot one reader had a question, “Once I have osteoarthritis on the top of my foot can it ever go away?”. So anyway during our back and forward exchange, I suggested she check out a TV show we did a little while ago on the subject with Rogers television daytime show Inside Brant. ( very much miss my monthly get together with Ted Lehman at Rogers). Its a quick easy to listen that gives a good overview of arthritis in the lower limb and our approach to management. Link to video.
The bare essentials are as follows.
Once the cartilage is gone or damaged it remains so, Adios!
There is no proven means to regenerate or replace cartilage at this time.
Things that will help reduce inflammation and deterioration of the joint
Reduction in body weight and trauma. Improved joint alignment, stable footwear, increased muscle strength, improved balance, and better nutrition.
As someone who has suffered from Osteoarthritis in my right knee all my adult life, I understand the frustrations and the desire for relief or resolution. Like most things there ARE NO quick fixes. When dealing with most chronic diseases we need to accept and identify what changes we can make to allow us to lead fulfilling and active lives. It’s a long journey but it is possible to have a huge impact on the level of pain and increase your joint longevity and mobility.
Remember when faced with a guaranteed reversal of OA, run ( or hobble) the other way. Use common sense and a healthy degree of skepticism when evaluating options. Frequently we encourage patients to take time to deliberate their decision-making, with regards course of treatment. Better to educate so there is a clear understanding of the condition and how it was caused and most importantly the commitment required to produce change.
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