Osteoarthritis – When Medications Are Not Enough
John asks: “I had a recent x-ray showing that I have arthritis of the spine. How can I get rid of it?”
Hi John. The spine is composed of many small joints that allow movement such as bending and turning. Like all joints in your body, they can wear down over time, causing a condition known as osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis of the spine can be a normal part of aging, but can be exacerbated by overuse, trauma, obesity, hereditary factors, and a variety of other conditions. Arthritis can be painful and limiting in terms of daily activities and function. If your knee or hip wears out, it can be replaced. Your spine, however, cannot be replaced. Fortunately, there are many options for patients with osteoarthritis of the spine. Often medications alone are all that are needed to relieve the pain of osteoarthritis. When medications are not enough, a pain physician can recommend injections that may be helpful. One solution may be to perform a rhizotomy which involves treating the nerves that are responsible for causing osteoarthritis pain in your spine. Consult your local board certified pain physician for more information or go to www.nypainfree.com.
Diane asks: “I have recurring sciatica that leaves me in severe pain for several months out of the year. Is there anything that can be done?”
Hi Diane. Sciatica is pain coming from the sciatic nerve – one of the main nerves that run down each leg. There are many causes of sciatica, but it is typically caused by irritation or compression of the nerve or the nerve roots that comprise the sciatic nerve anywhere from its origin along the low back to its end point down the legs. In most cases, treatment is initially conservative with a combination that may include rest, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, or the application of ice or heat. If symptoms persist, a pain management specialist may recommend an injection to decrease the inflammation along the nerve. For many people, an injection along the nerve can provide significant and dramatic pain relief that is long lasting, allowing them to resume their normal activities of daily living. For those who do not respond to conservative measures or injections, surgery may be a final option to possibly alleviate the symptoms. Consult your local board certified pain physician for more information or go to www.nypainfree.com. New York Pain Management has board certified pain physicians working for you. We have locations in Clifton Park and Queensbury and more information can be found on our website at www.nypainfree.com.
