Frequently Asked Questions

Osteoarthritis is caused by wear-and-tear on joint cartilage over time and typically affects one or a few joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where your immune system attacks joint tissue, usually affecting multiple joints symmetrically. Treatment approaches differ significantly between the two conditions.

Arthritis typically causes gradual onset of pain, morning stiffness lasting 30+ minutes, pain that worsens with activity, and joint swelling. Sudden pain after injury, locking, or giving way suggests other problems like meniscus tears or ligament damage. X-rays and physical examination help confirm arthritis diagnosis.

The most effective treatment depends on arthritis severity. For mild to moderate knee arthritis, a combination of physical therapy, weight management, and viscosupplementation (gel injections) often provides the best results. Severe cases may require knee replacement surgery. Research shows multimodal approaches work better than single treatments.

Hyaluronic acid (gel) injections typically last 3-6 months, while cortisone injections provide relief for 6-12 weeks. Individual results vary based on arthritis severity, activity level, and the specific product used. Some patients report benefits lasting up to a year with gel injections.