DOC TX Nov 2015 SEO PR–Orthopedic Specialist Discussing Early Warning Signs of Osteoarthritis

Lufkin, TX – For Immediate Release–A degenerative condition that can take years to progress as cartilage slowly breaks down around joints, osteoarthritis often gives signals in the early stages that there is a problem.

Dr. Merritt Pember, Orthopedic Surgeon at Direct Orthopedic Care in Lufkin, Texas, says, “In the beginning stages of osteoarthritis, joint tenderness, fluid on the joint, and stiffness of the joint after prolonged periods of inactivity are indicators of cartilage breakdown. Cartilage helps your joints absorb shock and when it wears down, it puts stress on the affected site which causes these symptoms.”

Additionally, osteoarthritis sufferers will notice their range of motion in the hip, knee, or other affected joint is drastically reduced and pain, though milder at the beginning stages, increases which can limit mobility.

Specializing in joint replacement, Dr. Pemberstates, “Whenever possible, joint replacement should be avoided and interventional therapies should be utilized for osteoarthritis as soon as symptoms begin.” This means paying attention to the early warning indicators your body gives and visiting a direct care orthopedic center in the event of any orthopedic injuries.

“Though we typically treat aging adults for osteoarthritis, the condition can develop after trauma from sports injuries such as an ACL or MCL tear in football players. Any injury involving the ligaments, cartilage, or other joint components increases your risk of the painful disease,” says Dr. Pember. He also noted that catching this disease before it progresses into advanced stages is essential for better patient outcomes.“When caught in the first couple of stages, we can develop a personalized plan to help prevent rapid progression and reduce pain so you can stay active.”

A simple evaluation by an orthopedic specialistin Lufkin along with diagnostic testing including X-ray will help determine whether osteoarthritis is present.For more information on osteoarthritis including treatment options, please call (936) 634-0062 or visit www.DocTexas.com.