iMsk & Spine Group
iMsk & Spine Group
New Patients
Existing Patients
Spinal Disorders Hicksville

Spinal Disorders

Joint Disorders Hicksville

Joint Disorders

Nervous System Disorders Hicksville

Nervous System Disorders

Arthritis Rheumatology Disorders Freeport

Arthritis & Rheumatology Disorders

Sports Related Injuries Far Rockaway

Sports Related Injuries

Other Pain Disorders Freeport

Other Pain Disorders

Expert Care for Shingles Pain & Nerve Damage

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and occurs when the protective cartilage within a joint gradually wears down. As cartilage weakens, bones may begin to rub together, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility. At iMsk & Spine Group, we understand how deeply osteoarthritis can impact daily life — from getting dressed to climbing stairs to staying active. Our team provides warm, personalized care designed to reduce pain, improve joint function, and help you maintain a healthy, active lifestyle at every age.
Schedule an Appointment

What Is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis, sometimes called Degenerative Arthritis or Degenerative Joint Disease, is a progressive condition involving the breakdown of:

  • Cartilage (the smooth tissue that cushions joints)
  • Bone ends (which may develop spurs or roughness)
  • Supporting tissues (including ligaments and joint lining)

As the joint degenerates, movement becomes painful and stiff, and daily activities may feel increasingly difficult. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint, but it most commonly involves:

  • Hips
  • Knees
  • Shoulders
  • Ankles
  • Fingers and hands
  • Spine facet joint

Common Causes of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis typically develops gradually over time, but several factors can accelerate or contribute to its progression:

Natural & Age-Related Causes

  • Wear and tear over many years
  • Reduced cartilage production with age

Lifestyle or Mechanical Factors

  • Repetitive stress on joints
  • High-impact activities
  • Excess body weight (increasing pressure on joints)

Medical or Structural Conditions

  • Joint injuries
  • Previous fractures or surgeries
  • Genetics or family history
  • Inflammatory conditions
  • Weak or imbalanced muscles placing strain on joints

Identifying the contributing factors allows us to create a highly targeted treatment plan.

Arthritis & Rheumatology Disorder | Conditions | iMsk & Spine Group | Long Island & Queens NY

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis symptoms range from mild discomfort to significant functional limitations. Common symptoms include:

Pain & Sensory Changes

  • Aching or sharp joint pain
  • Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest

Movement-Related Symptoms

  • Stiffness (especially in the morning or after sitting)
  • Decreased range of motion
  • Cracking, popping, or grinding sensations (crepitus)
  • Joint weakness or instability

Inflammatory Symptoms

  • Swelling around the joint
  • Tenderness to touch
  • Warmth or mild redness (in some cases)

Symptoms may come and go, or progressively worsen over time if untreated.

How We Treat Osteoarthritis at iMsk & Spine Group

We take a comprehensive, personalized approach designed to relieve pain, restore movement, and protect joint health.

1. Conservative Treatments

  • Activity modification
  • Weight management strategies (if appropriate)
  • Heat and cold therapy
  • Assistive devices (braces, supports, or canes)

2. Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation

  • Strengthening exercises
  • Stretching and flexibility work
  • Gait and posture training
  • Joint protection and movement strategies

3. Medications & Non-Opioid Pain Relief

  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Topical agents
  • Joint pain–specific medications

4. Interventional Treatments

  • Corticosteroid injections
  • Viscosupplementation (hyaluronic acid) injections for knee arthritis
  • Ultrasound-guided procedures for accurate targeting

5. Lifestyle & Long-Term Joint Protection

  • Ergonomics for work and home
  • Exercise recommendations
  • Activity pacing
  • Strengthening surrounding muscles for joint support

6. Advanced Care Coordination

If joint degeneration becomes severe, we help coordinate advanced orthopedic evaluation while continuing to support your rehabilitation and pain management every step of the way.

Osteoarthritis FAQ

Is osteoarthritis reversible?

While cartilage cannot fully regenerate, symptoms can be significantly improved and progression slowed with proper care, strengthening, and joint protection strategies.

Why does my joint hurt more in the morning?

Stiffness after inactivity is a hallmark of osteoarthritis. Movement helps lubricate the joint, improving comfort.

When should I consider injections for osteoarthritis?

Injections are considered when conservative care has not provided enough relief or when inflammation significantly limits movement.

Does exercise make osteoarthritis worse?

The right exercises help, not hurt. Strengthening the muscles around joints reduces pain and improves stability. Physical therapy is key.

What’s the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?

Osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear of cartilage. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes joint inflammation. iMsk & Spine Group treats both.

When is joint replacement needed?

Only when severe arthritis greatly impacts daily function and conservative care no longer helps. Many patients avoid or delay surgery with proper management.
Condition Post Herpetic Neuralgia Img 2 Far Rockaway