Osteoarthritis
Expert diagnosis and personalized treatment at Arthritis Care of Los Angeles.
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones gradually wears down over time. While osteoarthritis can damage any joint, it most commonly affects the hands, knees, hips, and spine. Unlike rheumatoid arthritis, OA is not an autoimmune disease — it is primarily a degenerative condition. However, inflammation does play a role in its progression. Proper management can significantly reduce pain, improve mobility, and slow disease progression.
Common Symptoms
- Joint pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting
- Loss of flexibility and reduced range of motion
- A grating sensation or crackling sound when moving the joint
- Swelling around the affected joint
- Bone spurs (hard lumps) around the joint
- Joint instability or giving way
- Difficulty with daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, or gripping objects
Experiencing these symptoms? Get expert care today.
How is Osteoarthritis Diagnosed?
Osteoarthritis is diagnosed through physical examination, discussion of symptoms, and imaging studies. X-rays can reveal cartilage loss, bone spurs, and narrowing of the joint space. MRI may be used for more detailed evaluation. Blood tests are typically used to rule out other types of arthritis. Dr. Forouzesh evaluates the full picture to determine the best management approach.
Treatment Options
Pain Management
Acetaminophen, NSAIDs, or topical pain relievers to manage day-to-day pain and inflammation.
Joint Injections
Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections directly into the joint to reduce pain and improve mobility.
Physical Therapy
Targeted exercises to strengthen muscles around the joint, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. A cornerstone of OA management.
Weight Management
Losing even a small amount of weight can significantly reduce stress on weight-bearing joints and slow cartilage breakdown.
Assistive Devices
Braces, shoe inserts, canes, or other devices to support joints and make daily activities easier.
Surgical Referral
When conservative treatments are no longer effective, Dr. Forouzesh can coordinate referral for joint replacement surgery.
Key Statistics
32.5 Million
Americans living with osteoarthritis
Source: CDC
#1
Most common form of arthritis
Source: Arthritis Foundation
50%
Of adults over 65 have osteoarthritis
Source: NIH/NIAMS
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Get Expert Care?
Schedule your appointment with Dr. Solomon Forouzesh, MD, FACP, FACR — a board-certified rheumatologist with 50++ years of expertise in arthritis and autoimmune diseases.