There is no cure for arthritis, but recent years have seen dramatic new ways to manage the pain, the lack of mobility, and the fatigue, which are among the disease’s most disabling symptoms. During the early and middle stages of the disease, a treatment program of medicines, cortisone shots, ice treatments, exercise, and physical therapy can be very effective in reducing symptoms and improving mobility.

• Medicines – Coated aspirin helps relieve pain and has few side effects. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), such as Voltaren, Feldene, Naprosyn, and Clinoril, are prescription drugs for pain and inflammation. Do not take aspirin if you are taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

• Cortisone Shots – Cortisone shots are given for inflammation. For many people, joint arthritis is often made symptom-free for months or even years after cortisone shots. Four to six shots a year can usually be given without dangerous side effects.

• Ice Treatments – Ice packs on the knee (three times daily, 10 to 20 minutes at a time) are helpful for the inflammation and temporary relief of pain and soreness.

• Diet – There is no evidence that any specific foods will prevent or relieve arthritis symptoms. If is important to keep thin, however, because excess weight aggravates arthritis by putting added pressure on the knees.

• Exercise and Rest – Prolonged rest and days of inactivity will increase stiffness and make it harder to move around.  “Motion is lotion for arthritis!”  At the same time, excessive or improper exercise can overwork arthritic joints and cause further damage. A balanced routine of rest and exercise is best.

What about surgery?

• Arthroscopy – Arthroscopic procedures are generally NOT helpful for arthritis. In some cases, a “flap” of torn knee cartilage can aggravate arthritis and cause additional pain. The cartilage flap can be removed by arthroscopy.

• Knee or Hip Replacement – Knee replacement or hip replacement is a very positive solution to the pain and disability of advanced osteoarthritis. The rough, worn surfaces of the joint are re-lined with smooth-surfaced metal and plastic components.

Which type of doctor should a patient see?

A patient should see a Family Physician if:

• He or she is able to walk three or four blocks with mild pain.

• The patient has had no previous treatment for knee or hip pain, or is using only Advil or Aleve.

For the name and phone number of a family physician on the Valley Baptist Medical Staff, click on the “Find A Physician” button anywhere in our web site, then scroll down to “Family Practice”; or call (956) 428-VBMC (428-8262).

A patient should see a VBMC Orthopedist if:

• He or she is UNABLE to walk three or four blocks or experiences a great deal of pain while doing so.

• The patient has been taking arthritis medication, but the medication no longer adequately controls their pain.

For general information or information about scheduling an appointment with an orthopedist, call the Joint Replacement Center at:

(956) 389-JOINT   (389-5646)

or 1-888-80-JOINT   (888-805-6468)

For the name and phone number of an orthopedic surgeon on the Valley Baptist Medical Staff, click on the “Find A Physician” button anywhere on our web site, then scroll down to "Orthopedic Surgery"; or call (956) 389-5646 or 428-8262.

Free Knee & Hip Pain Seminars

The Valley Baptist Joint Replacement Center holds free seminars in both English and Spanish on ways to obtain relief from knee and hip pain. These ongoing seminars include information on the latest treatments for knee and hip pain, as well as tips about medicines, food, and exercise. The seminars are held at Valley Baptist Medical Center in Harlingen, in Classroom “B” on the third floor of the East Tower of the hospital.  To register for the next free seminar, call (956) 389-5646 or toll-free 1-888-805-6468.