Understanding Arthritis and How Our Sports Medicine Team Can Help
Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people, causing pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. While there are different types of arthritis, the majority of cases we see in our sports medicine clinic are osteoarthritis—a progressive loss of cartilage in the joint due to wear and tear over time. Our expert sports medicine physicians are equipped with the knowledge and treatment options to help patients manage arthritis and maintain an active lifestyle.
Diagnosing Arthritis
Diagnosing arthritis starts with a thorough patient history and physical exam. Our sports medicine physician will ask about symptoms, joint pain patterns, and any history of injuries. To confirm the diagnosis, we use X-rays to assess joint space narrowing and the presence of bone spurs, both of which are key indicators of arthritis. In some cases, advanced imaging such as MRI or CT scans may be necessary to get a more detailed view of the joint, but they are not typically required for initial diagnosis.
Commonly Affected Joints
Arthritis can develop in any joint, but the most common locations we treat include:
Knees – Often seen in athletes and active individuals due to repetitive stress.
Shoulders – Common in patients who have a history of overhead activities, such as swimming or baseball.
Spine – A frequent issue for those with long-standing postural strain or heavy lifting.
Hips – Affected by both activity-related wear and genetics.
How Our Sports Medicine Team Treats Arthritis
Our sports medicine program offers a range of non-surgical and minimally invasive treatments to help alleviate pain and improve function:
- Joint Injections – These can provide significant relief by reducing inflammation and improving joint lubrication. We offer several types of injections:
- Corticosteroid injections for quick pain relief and inflammation reduction.
- Hyaluronic acid injections to supplement joint lubrication and improve mobility.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, which uses a patient’s own platelets to promote healing and tissue regeneration.
- Medical Management – We may recommend anti-inflammatory medications, lifestyle modifications, and supplements to help manage symptoms and slow progression.
- Bracing & Support – For certain joints, such as the knee, custom or off-the-shelf braces can provide stability and reduce pain by redistributing joint pressure.
- Physical Therapy Referrals – Working with a specialized physical therapist can improve joint function, increase strength, and enhance mobility through targeted exercises and movement strategies.
- Activity Modification & Rehabilitation – Our team helps patients adapt their fitness routines to stay active while protecting their joints. Whether you’re a runner, cyclist, or weekend warrior, we tailor recommendations to keep you moving safely.
When to See a Sports Medicine Physician for Arthritis
If joint pain is interfering with your daily activities, exercise, or athletic performance, it may be time to seek expert care. Early intervention can help slow arthritis progression and keep you active longer.
At Complete Health Partners, our sports medicine specialist is dedicated to helping patients with arthritis stay in motion. Whether you’re looking to return to your favorite sport or simply maintain an active lifestyle, we have the expertise and treatment options to support your journey.
If you’re struggling with joint pain, schedule an appointment with our sports medicine team today and take the first step toward better joint health!
6749 Charlotte Pike, Nashville, TN 37209
629.203.7858
9am – 7pm, 7 days a week
166 E Main Street, Hendersonville, TN 37075
615.991.2855
9am – 7pm, 7 Days a week