10/04/2025
🦵 What Is Osteoarthritis? 🦵
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis, often called “wear-and-tear arthritis.” It happens when the protective cartilage in a joint—like your knee—breaks down over time.
🔎 What Does It Do to the Knee?
• Cartilage wears away → the smooth cushion between bones becomes thin or rough.
• Bones rub together → causing pain, stiffness, and sometimes swelling.
• Inflammation develops → leading to more joint discomfort.
• Bone spurs may form → adding to stiffness and decreased range of motion.
💡 How It Feels
• Pain during or after activity
• Morning stiffness or stiffness after sitting
• Cracking or grinding sounds in the joint
• Decreased flexibility and mobility
👉 Over time, osteoarthritis can make everyday activities—like walking, climbing stairs, or even standing—more difficult.
🌟 The Good News
While OA is a chronic condition, there are many treatments that can help manage pain, reduce inflammation, and improve function—ranging from lifestyle changes and injections to advanced regenerative options.
At Essence Health Group, we help patients find the right plan to keep their joints moving and their lives active.
📞 Call us at 402-502-6009 to schedule a FREE consultation with Wendy Smith, AGPC-NP, DNP.
