Osteoarthritis (OA)

Osteoarthritis is common — but it is not simple. It’s not just “wear and tear,” and it’s not a problem you just have to “live with.”

It’s a condition where the joint gradually becomes irritated and inflamed, the cartilage changes, and the surrounding muscles and tissues adapt in ways that can lead to stiffness, discomfort, and changes in how you move. I treat the affected joint like it is a unique organ.

But here’s something I believe strongly:

You will never hear me tell you that you need a joint replacement.

You will tell me when it’s time.

That decision is based on your pain, your function, your activities, and your goals — not just an X-ray or someone else's idea of what your life should look like.

My job is to help you stay active, mobile, and confident for as long as possible using every non-operative tool available.

Maximizing Nonoperative Treatment

I take a layered, individualized approach based on what your joint — and your life — needs.

Movement is medicine.
We focus on restoring and maintaining motion, flexibility, and strength.
Low-impact activities like cycling, swimming, elliptical, rowing, and resistance training go a long way in protecting joint health.

Other strategies may include:

  • Targeted physical therapy

  • Anti-inflammatory strategies (medications and lifestyle)

  • Bracing, compression sleeves, and unloading techniques

  • Activity modification without restricting your life

  • Ultrasound-guided injections when appropriate

And for patients interested in biologic options, I offer:

  • PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)

  • PPP / growth factor–based treatments

  • MFAT (Micro-Fragmented Adipose Tissue)

  • BMAC (Bone Marrow Concentrate)

The goal isn’t just pain relief — it’s function, control, and confidence in your own body.

Understanding Imaging: Why MRI Isn’t Always the Answer

Many patients come in saying, “Shouldn’t we get an MRI?”
Here’s the honest answer:

For osteoarthritis, MRI rarely changes treatment.
X-rays tell us what we need to know about joint space, alignment, and bone changes.

Also: The severity of what we see on imaging does not always match your symptoms.
You can have:

  • “Bone-on-bone” arthritis and still feel pretty good

  • Mild arthritis on X-ray but significant pain due to inflammation or biomechanics

This is why treatment is tailored to you, not the picture on the screen.

A Partnership

Osteoarthritis is not a one-conversation diagnosis.
It’s a relationship — between you, your joint, your movement patterns, and your goals.

I’ll help guide you, treat what we can treat, and support the things that matter most to you.
And when — if — the day comes where joint replacement is the best option, you won’t need me to say it.

You will know.