Joint wear that is nearly universal with age, and whose severity on an X-ray tells you remarkably little about how much it will hurt.
What it is
Cartilage thins, the joint space narrows and bone spurs form. Inflammation within the joint drives much of the pain.
Imaging severity and pain severity correlate poorly. People with dramatic X-rays function well; people with mild changes suffer.
How it usually presents
- Pain on use, easing with rest, at least early on.
- Morning stiffness lasting under 30 minutes.
- Grinding or catching in the joint.
- Swelling after activity.
How we treat it
- Image-guided joint injection — corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid.
- Physical therapy, which is among the most effective treatments available for joint arthritis.
- Metabolic treatment, because inflammation and load both matter.
- Genicular nerve blocks and ablation for knee arthritis where injections stop working.
To be assessed, call (314) 310-5577 or request an appointment.
Common questions
Is it worth exercising with arthritis?
Yes — strongly. Muscle around a joint is the best support it has, and inactivity accelerates both pain and decline.
Hurt in an accident? Start here.
You do not need a lawyer, a police report or a referral to be seen. Bring your symptoms and we will work out the rest.
Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Same-day appointments are often available for new accident and injury patients.