Muscle Spasms Due to Osteoarthritis (OA)
Osteoarthritis affects many people as they age (and their bodies begin to break down). In addition to pain, stiffness, and tenderness in the joints, osteoarthritis can also cause muscle spasms. In this article, we are going to talk about muscle spasms as they relate to osteoarthritis – how to determine if spasms are caused by OA and some treatment options.
When Osteoarthritis Causes Muscle Spasms
Osteoarthritis (OA for short) is a degenerative condition that impacts a person’s joints. It occurs when the tissue in a person’s joints begins to erode. OA is the most common type of arthritis, and most often impacts the joints in the knees, hips, spine, and hands. Here are a few of the most common symptoms of osteoarthritis:
- Pain and tenderness in the joint
- Decreased range of motion or flexibility
- Muscle spasms
Many people experience osteoarthritis symptoms to varying degrees as they age. Early identification can help reduce the severity of pain, inflexibility, and muscle spasms.
How to treat Muscle Spasms Caused by OA
Muscle spasms can be caused by a number of potential factors, so the first step in treatment is determining the precise cause. There is really no way to treat osteoarthritis – but you can mitigate its symptoms, including muscle spasms. Pain medications (over the counter or prescription meds), physical therapy, and various injections can all be useful in decreasing the severity of muscle spasms as well as other symptoms.
The pain management physicians at Advanced Spine & Pain Clinics of MN have been treating Minnesotan patients suffering from muscle spasms and osteoarthritis for over two decades. Our doctors have the knowledge and experience to diagnose your condition, and put together a treatment strategy that fits your needs. If you are suffering from muscle spasms and have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, set up your appointment with a pain doctor today by contacting our office.
