Arthritis Treatment & Joint Preservation In Santa Barbara & Solvang, CA

Orthopedic Institute of Santa Barbara

Orthopedic Surgeon & Sports Medicine located in Santa Barbara, CA & Solvang, CA

Arthritis doesn't just cause physical pain; it threatens your independence and long-term health by making exercise difficult. Managing arthritis requires a proactive strategy that balances immediate pain relief with long-term joint preservation. At the Orthopedic Institute of Santa Barbara, we help patients across the Central Coast navigate the complexities of rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, offering a patient-centered approach that explores all viable options before recommending surgery.

Our practice is a leader in utilizing biologic treatments, such as Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and hyaluronic acid injections, to lubricate joints and reduce the inflammation associated with "wear and tear." For cases where joint preservation is no longer possible, Dr. Gallivan’s expertise in robotic-assisted surgery at local facilities like Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital ensures that your transition to a replacement is as seamless and effective as possible.

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is tenderness and swelling in one or more joints. Symptoms of arthritis include joint pain and stiffness, which usually worsen as time goes on. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the two most common types of arthritis.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritisa degenerative condition that arises when the protective cartilage that covers the end of your bones gradually breaks down overtime. Once the cartilage wears down, the bones begin to rub against each other, thus often resulting in pain and stiffness. Although osteoarthritis can occur in any joint in the body, it most commonly affects the joints in your knees, hips, spine and hands.

Some common risk factors for osteoarthritis include:

Age
Obesity
Joint Injuries
Bone deformities
Family history
Repeated Stress on the Joint

Without treatment, osteoarthritis and the symptoms you experience, will likely continue to progressively worsen over time.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes chronic inflammation in one or more joints. In rheumatoid arthritis your body’s immune system attacks the lining of your joints, which may cause pain, swelling and/or warmth of the joint(s).

The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, but it’s believed to be genetic. Rheumatoid arthritis often begins in the small joints of the hands and feet and gradually spreads to the wrists, knees, ankles, elbows, hips and shoulders.

Other types of arthritis include gout, juvenile arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and lupus.

How is arthritis treated?

A physical examination will be completed by Dr. Gallivan to evaluate the joint, specifically looking at the mobility of your joint. An X-ray image of the painful area may be obtained and reviewed by Dr. Gallivan.

Your condition is diagnosed using X-rays to look at the status of your joints and bones. Your doctor may also perform additional imaging tests like an MRI or ultrasound.

Treatment for arthritis will likely depend on the severity of the arthritis and the amount of pain you are experiencing.

Treatment options may include: