Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and a leading cause of joint pain and disability, especially among older adults. It typically affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. While osteoarthritis is degenerative and progressive, the good news is that a wide range of treatment options are available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
As a Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon in Pimpri-Chinchwad, I help patients understand their condition and create tailored treatment plans—from conservative therapy to advanced surgical options.
What Is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a chronic joint condition characterized by the gradual breakdown of cartilage—the protective tissue at the ends of bones. As the cartilage wears away, bones rub against each other, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness.
Commonly Affected Joints:
- Knees
- Hips
- Hands
- Lower back (lumbar spine)
- Neck (cervical spine)
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
Patients in my Pimpri-Chinchwad clinic typically report the following:
- Persistent joint pain, especially after activity
- Stiffness after rest or in the morning
- Swelling around the joint
- Reduced range of motion
- Clicking or grinding sounds during movement
Early diagnosis is essential to prevent further joint damage and preserve function.
Causes and Risk Factors While aging is the most common cause, other contributing factors include:
- Joint injuries or overuse
- Obesity (increased stress on weight-bearing joints)
- Genetic predisposition
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Poor joint alignment
Treatment Options for Osteoarthritis
There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but a combination of therapies can significantly reduce symptoms and improve joint health. I follow a step-by-step, personalized approach for each patient, starting with non-invasive treatments and progressing to surgical intervention when needed.
1. Lifestyle Modifications
Small changes can have a major impact:
- Weight loss to reduce pressure on joints (especially knees and hips)
- Low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, or yoga
- Avoiding repetitive stress on affected joints
- Proper posture and ergonomics during daily activities
2. Medications Used to relieve pain and control inflammation:
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
- Topical pain relievers (gels or creams)
- Acetaminophen for mild to moderate pain
- Duloxetine (a nerve pain modulator in chronic OA cases)
Medication plans are always customized based on patient age, health conditions, and pain severity.
3. Physiotherapy
A key component of osteoarthritis care:
- Strengthens muscles around the joint
- Improves flexibility and stability
- Reduces pain through guided movements
In Pimpri-Chinchwad, I work closely with certified physiotherapists to offer supervised rehab programs tailored to each joint.
4. Injections
For patients who don’t respond well to oral medications:
- Corticosteroid injections: Fast relief from joint inflammation and swelling
- Hyaluronic acid injections: Acts as joint lubricant, especially useful in knee OA
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy: Uses the body’s own healing factors to repair joint tissue
Injections are performed under sterile conditions for maximum safety and effectiveness.
5. Assistive Devices
To reduce stress on joints and improve mobility:
- Braces or orthotic supports
- Canes or walkers for advanced-stage OA
- Custom footwear to improve joint alignment
6. Surgical Treatment Options
When conservative treatments are no longer effective, surgery offers long-term relief.
Arthroscopy
- Minimally invasive surgery to clean the joint or remove loose fragments
- Suitable for mild to moderate OA
Osteotomy
- Bone realignment procedure to shift weight from the damaged part of the joint
- Often used in younger patients with knee OA
Joint Replacement Surgery
- Total Knee Replacement (TKR) or Total Hip Replacement (THR)
- Replaces the damaged joint surface with a prosthetic implant
- Recommended for advanced-stage OA with significant pain and mobility loss
At my orthopedic practice in Pimpri-Chinchwad, joint replacement surgeries are performed using modern, minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery and long-term success.
When Should You Consider Surgery?
You may be a candidate for surgery if:
- Pain affects your sleep or daily routine
- You’ve tried medications and physiotherapy without relief
- Your joint is visibly deformed
- Stiffness and mobility continue to worsen
A detailed orthopedic evaluation—including X-rays and physical examination—helps determine the best time to proceed with surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can osteoarthritis be cured?
A: While there is no cure, osteoarthritis can be effectively managed with lifestyle changes, medication, and—when necessary—surgery.
Q: When should I see an orthopedic surgeon in Pimpri-Chinchwad for osteoarthritis?
A: If joint pain persists despite rest, medications, or home care, or if mobility is declining, consult Dr. Ashutosh Dongre, orthopedic expert in Pimpri-Chinchwad, for a full evaluation.
Q: Are joint replacement surgeries safe?
A: Yes, when performed by a skilled orthopedic surgeon. Modern joint replacement techniques offer a high success rate and long-lasting results.
Q: How long does a joint replacement last?
A: Typically 15–20 years, depending on activity level, weight, and surgical quality.
Expert Osteoarthritis Care in Pimpri-Chinchwad
If joint pain is interfering with your lifestyle, don’t wait for it to worsen. At my orthopedic clinic in Pimpri-Chinchwad, I offer comprehensive care—from initial diagnosis to advanced surgical treatment—tailored to your needs.
About Dr. Ashutosh Dongre
Dr. Ashutosh Dongre is a highly experienced Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon based in Pimpri-Chinchwad, with a special focus on arthritis, joint preservation, and replacement surgeries. His patient-first approach and expertise in modern treatment protocols ensure optimal outcomes for long-term joint health.
Take the first step toward joint pain relief.
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Ashutosh Dongre today and receive personalized treatment for osteoarthritis in Pimpri-Chinchwad.
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