Osteoarthritis is caused when the cartilage in between the bones begin to degenerate. When this happens, the can eventually cause bone to bone friction leading to pain.

Signs of osteoarthritis begin slowly and worsen over time. They can include:

• Pain and stiffness
• Tenderness
• Decrease of flexibility
• Bone spurs

To diagnose osteoarthritis, your Newport Beach orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Todd Peters will perform a complete and thorough physical examination as well as a medical history check. He may also request X-Rays, MRIs, and CT scans to better assess your case.

X-Rays – A type of quick imaging process using electromagnectic waves to better show Dr. Peters bones of the body to pinpoint possible sources of pain.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – This type of imaging uses radiology to show Dr. Peters the soft tissues of the body like muscles, disks, nerves, and the spinal cord.

Computerized tomography (CT) – CT scans are X-ray scans taken from various angles to create a cross-section of bones and soft tissues of the body.

• Steroid/Epidural injections
• Acupuncture
• Pain medication

In extreme cases, Dr. Peters may recommend surgery as a treatment.