Osteoarthritis

Elite Rheumatology and Arthritis Center
Dr. Sumalatha Nandikonda, MD
1727 Orlando Central Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32809
Phone/Text: 407-888-5980

Fax: 4078882492

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“Please note that Elite Rheumatology and Arthritis Center operates under the legal business name 
Sunshine Specialty Healthcare LLC”.

What is Osteoarthritis? 

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and a leading cause of joint pain and reduced mobility. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones gradually wears down, causing friction, inflammation, and pain within the joint.
At Elite Rheumatology, we provide comprehensive osteoarthritis treatment in Orlando, helping patients manage pain, maintain joint function, and improve quality of life. OA can affect any joint, but it most often involves the knees, hips, hands, spine, and shoulders.
 
What Causes Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis develops over time due to mechanical stress and joint degeneration. Common causes and risk factors include:

• Aging: Natural cartilage wear with time

• Joint injuries or repetitive use: Sports injuries or occupational strain

• Obesity: Increased pressure on weight-bearing joints

• Genetics: Family history of osteoarthritis

• Joint misalignment or bone deformities

• Muscle weakness: Reduced joint support
   

Early evaluation allows  timely osteoarthritis treatment in Orlando, helping slow progression and prevent disability.
 
Common Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
Symptoms may vary depending on the affected joint and severity but often include:

• Joint pain during or after activity

• Morning stiffness or stiffness after rest

• Swelling or tenderness around the joint

• Decreased flexibility or range of motion

• Clicking, grinding, or popping sensations

• Weakness or instability in the joint
   

Because symptoms can overlap with inflammatory arthritis, proper diagnosis is key when considering osteoarthritis vs rheumatoid arthritis treatment.
 
How Is Osteoarthritis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a detailed clinical assessment and imaging studies. Your rheumatologist may use:

• Physical examination to assess joint pain, swelling, and motion

• X-rays to detect cartilage loss, bone spurs, and joint space narrowing

• MRI in select cases for early or complex joint damage

• Joint fluid analysis to rule out inflammatory conditions
   

Distinguishing OA from inflammatory diseases is essential when planning osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis treatment, as management strategies differ significantly.

Osteoarthritis Treatment in Orlando
While osteoarthritis cannot be cured, effective osteoarthritis treatment in Orlando can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility. Treatment plans are individualized and may include:
Lifestyle and Non-Medication Treatments

• Weight management to reduce joint stress

• Low-impact exercise (walking, swimming, cycling)

• Joint protection and activity pacing
   

Medications

• Acetaminophen for pain relief

• NSAIDs to reduce inflammation

• Topical anti-inflammatory creams
   

Joint Injections

• Corticosteroid injections for flare-related pain

• Hyaluronic acid injections in select patients
   

Supportive Therapies

• Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility

• Braces, splints, or orthotics for joint support

• Heat and cold therapy
   

Surgical Options

• Joint replacement surgery for advanced osteoarthritis when conservative treatments fail
   

Patients with overlapping conditions benefit from coordinated osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis treatment under rheumatology care.

Self-Care Tips

• Stay active to keep joints flexible

• Use proper body mechanics and posture

• Apply ice or heat to relieve pain and stiffness

• Work closely with your rheumatologist to manage flare-ups

 
Take Control of Joint Health
With early diagnosis and personalized care, osteoarthritis treatment in Orlando can help patients stay active and independent. Understanding the difference between osteoarthritis vs rheumatoid arthritis treatment ensures the right therapy is started early, preventing unnecessary joint damage.
If you’re experiencing persistent joint pain, stiffness, or swelling, expert evaluation can determine whether osteoarthritis or inflammatory arthritis is the cause—and guide the most effective treatment plan.
 
Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best osteoarthritis treatment in Orlando?
The best osteoarthritis treatment in Orlando depends on the severity of joint damage and your symptoms. Treatment often includes lifestyle changes, physical therapy, pain-relief medications, joint injections, and long-term joint care under a rheumatologist’s guidance. Early treatment can slow progression and improve daily function.
 
2. How is osteoarthritis different from rheumatoid arthritis?
Osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear of joint cartilage, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in multiple joints. Because the causes are different, osteoarthritis vs rheumatoid arthritis treatment also differs. A rheumatologist can determine the correct diagnosis and treatment approach.
 
3. Can osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis be treated together?
Yes. Some patients may have features of both conditions. In such cases, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis treatment is carefully coordinated to manage pain, inflammation, and joint protection without overmedication. A personalized treatment plan ensures safe and effective care.
 
4. Is osteoarthritis curable?
No, osteoarthritis is not curable. However, with proper osteoarthritis treatment in Orlando, many people can control pain, maintain joint movement, and continue leading active lives. Early diagnosis and consistent management are key to preventing worsening symptoms.
 
5. When should I see a rheumatologist for osteoarthritis?
You should see a rheumatologist if joint pain lasts more than a few weeks, worsens over time, or limits daily activities. A specialist can confirm the diagnosis, rule out inflammatory conditions, and guide appropriate osteoarthritis vs rheumatoid arthritis treatment if symptoms overlap.