Osteoarthritis Treatment in Beirut

In a joint, the ends of the bones are covered with cartilage, and in this condition it gradually wears. When it thins, the joint's cushioning goes, the bones rub together and pain, stiffness and crunching follow. The condition is degenerative, not inflammatory.

Often it can, as long as treatment is not postponed. SVF and PRP injections set out to reduce pain and support the cartilage, avoiding an operation; replacement of the joint is the last option when it is already destroyed.

Many patients see the first changes 2–3 weeks after the procedure. A stable result takes about six months to form and can last from several months to several years, depending on the person. Because osteoarthritis is chronic, it needs an ongoing plan, not a single injection.

It is used at early and moderate stages; the milder the stage, the faster and more lasting the effect usually is, possibly reducing the need for regular hyaluronic acid injections. At the most advanced stage — joint space almost gone — a lasting effect is not realistic.

Mostly the heavily loaded knees, hips and ankles, along with the small joints of the hand and the spine. Regenerative treatment is used for all these joints.

It tends to progress: pain becomes constant, movement more restricted, the joint may deform and walking may become hard. Early diagnosis, weight control, exercise and working with a doctor really make a difference.

The main method is an X-ray, which shows the stage. MRI gives a detailed picture of cartilage and soft tissues, ultrasound reveals inflammation and fluid in the joint, and blood tests help exclude inflammatory conditions. If you already have results, the doctor can review them free of charge.

Osteoarthritis is wear of the cartilage, with aching pain on moving, crunching and stiffness after rest; arthritis is inflammation, with pain at rest and at night, swelling, redness and warmth over the joint. The treatment is not the same, so diagnosis must come first.

Yes — send X-rays, MRI or test results, and a doctor will review them at no charge, assess the stage of osteoarthritis and, if appropriate, suggest a non-surgical plan.

Yes, and it helps. Well-chosen activity strengthens the muscles that unload the joint, improves the cartilage's nutrition and keeps you mobile. Swimming, water aerobics, cycling, Nordic walking and yoga work well, while running on hard surfaces, jumping, heavy lifting and sudden movements are best avoided.