Bone Health & Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joints. Over time, it can damage cartilage and bone, reducing mobility and affecting daily activities. The most common types include:

• Osteoarthritis: Wear-and-tear of joint cartilage, often in the knees, hips, and hands.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune condition that inflames joint linings.
• Psoriatic arthritis: Joint inflammation linked to psoriasis.
• Gout: Painful arthritis caused by uric acid crystal buildup in joints.

Arthritis can affect any joint, including the hands, wrists, shoulders, hips, knees, spine, and feet. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent long-term damage.

Strong bones are the foundation for mobility and overall health. Conditions like osteoporosis weaken bones and increase the risk of fractures. Maintaining bone health is important for:

• Preventing fractures and breaks
• Supporting joint function
• Improving balance and mobility
• Reducing pain from degenerative conditions

At Mercer-Bucks Orthopedics, diagnosis begins with a thorough review of your medical history and a physical exam. Your provider may also recommend:

• X-rays or CT scans: To evaluate bone and joint structure
• MRI: To assess soft tissue, cartilage, and inflammation
• DEXA scan: To measure bone density and identify osteoporosis
• Blood tests: To check for autoimmune conditions or metabolic causes

Treatment depends on your condition, severity, and lifestyle. Our orthopaedic specialists develop individualized care plans, which may include:

• Medication management: Anti-inflammatory drugs, disease-modifying medications, or supplements for bone health
• Physical therapy: Strengthening muscles around joints to reduce pain and improve mobility
• Orthotics and braces: Support for weakened joints and alignment correction
• Lifestyle guidance: Nutrition, exercise, and fall prevention strategies
• Minimally invasive injections: Corticosteroid injections, hyaluronic acid, or platelet-rich plasma (PRP)
• Surgery: Joint replacement, arthroscopy, or fusion for severe arthritis or bone damage

While some risk factors like age and genetics are unavoidable, you can take steps to maintain bone and joint health:

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on joints
• Engage in regular, low-impact exercise like walking, swimming, or cycling
• Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol
• Manage chronic conditions, such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders