Osteoarthritis Treatment in Manhasset, NY

Serving Nassau County, Long Island & Queens

What Is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the joints gradually wears down over time.

Unlike autoimmune arthritis, osteoarthritis is typically related to aging, prior joint injury, or mechanical stress on the joints.

Commonly affected joints include:

Knees
Hips
Hands
Shoulders
Spine

Although it is sometimes called “wear and tear” arthritis, osteoarthritis can still cause significant pain and impact daily life.

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

Symptoms may include:

Joint pain that worsens with activity
Stiffness after rest
Decreased range of motion
Swelling around the joint
Grinding or clicking sensation

Symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen over time.

How Is Osteoarthritis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically based on:

Medical history and physical examination
Imaging such as X-rays
Evaluation of joint function and mobility

Proper diagnosis helps distinguish osteoarthritis from inflammatory or autoimmune arthritis.

Treatment Options for Osteoarthritis

While osteoarthritis cannot be reversed, many effective treatments can relieve pain and improve function.

Treatment may include:

Physical therapy and exercise guidance
Weight management strategies
Anti-inflammatory medications
Joint injections (ultrasound guided)
Hyaluronic acid (gel) injections
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy (coming soon)
Coordination with orthopedic specialists if needed

Our goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and maintain independence.

Hyaluronic Acid (Gel) Injections for Knee Osteoarthritis

We offer hyaluronic acid injections — commonly referred to as “gel injections” — for selected patients with knee osteoarthritis.

These injections:

Help improve joint lubrication
May reduce pain and stiffness
Can improve walking and daily function
May delay the need for surgical intervention in appropriate patients

Hyaluronic acid supplements the natural joint fluid that becomes depleted in osteoarthritis.

Performed Under Ultrasound Guidance

When indicated, gel injections are performed under ultrasound guidance to ensure precise placement within the joint space, which may improve treatment accuracy and patient comfort.

Corticosteroid Injections

For inflammatory flares or significant pain, corticosteroid injections may provide targeted, temporary relief.

Ultrasound guidance is used when appropriate for optimal medication delivery.

Is Gel Injection Right for You?

You may be a candidate for hyaluronic acid injection if:

You have knee osteoarthritis confirmed by imaging
You continue to have pain despite conservative therapy
You want to explore non-surgical treatment options
You are not ready for joint replacement

An in-office evaluation will determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy (coming soon) – Ask Us About It

When Should You See a Rheumatologist?

You should seek evaluation if you:

Have persistent joint pain lasting several weeks
Experience joint stiffness that interferes with daily activities
Are unsure whether your symptoms are inflammatory or degenerative

A rheumatology evaluation can help clarify your diagnosis and guide appropriate treatment.

Comprehensive Osteoarthritis Care

At Manhasset Rheumatology, we provide individualized evaluation and management of osteoarthritis for patients throughout Nassau County, Long Island, and Queens.

As a small, two-physician private practice, we prioritize one-on-one care and continuity with your board-certified rheumatologist at each visit.

Both physicians are consultants at St. Francis Hospital and work closely with other specialists when advanced care is needed.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are experiencing joint pain or stiffness, we encourage you to schedule an evaluation.

📞 516-365-1700
📧 manhassetrheum@gmail.com

We proudly serve patients in Manhasset, Nassau County, Long Island, and Queens.