Are you unable to effectively use your knees due to the pain they cause? You may be suffering from osteoarthritis and need to undergo a surgical procedure called arthroplasty to get rid of the pain. Below, you will discover how osteoarthritis occurs and what a rheumatologist can do to treat it.

How Does Someone Get Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage between the joints begin to wear away. The cartilage is vital to movement because it is used to prevent joints from rubbing too closely together when you are using your knees. Once the cartilage has begun to wear away, you can begin experiencing a lot of pain. You may also experience symptoms that include:

• Swelling
• Stiffness
• Bone spurs
• A lack of knee movement

There are several reasons why people get osteoarthritis, with age being one of the main reasons. It is possible for young people to develop the condition, but it is most common in people that are much older. Osteoarthritis can also occur if it is inherited from a family member or due to an injury that was caused while playing sports. Arthroplasty is sometimes needed to treat the condition.

How Can a Rheumatologist Treat Osteoarthritis with Arthroplasty?

Depending on how severe the osteoarthritis is, a rheumatologist may have to perform complete knee replacement surgery (arthroplasty) before you will experience comfort from the pain. Damaged bones and cartilage will be cut from several different areas during the procedure, including the kneecap, thighbone and shinbone. You don't have to worry about pain during the process because you will be given anesthesia before surgery begins.

After the bone and cartilage has been removed, an artificial joint will be installed in their place. The artificial joint is a device that is constructed out of materials like polymers, metal alloys and high quality plastics that will not harm your body. You may be given antibiotic before the procedure to help prevent any infections that may develop as your bones and cartilage is exposed. Antibiotics will be prescribed after the procedure as well.

Osteoarthritis can be a nightmare to live with, especially if you have to go to work each day. The only way to find relief is to undergo an examination to find out the best way to treat the problem. A rheumatologist can perform arthroplasty to replace the cartilage that has worn away so your joints will no longer rub together and cause pain! Visit a reputable one in your area, such as Arthritis & Rheumatology Associates of South Jersey.