Understanding Osteoarthritis vs. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Arthritis is extremely common. In fact, over five hundred million people worldwide show symptoms associated with the condition. But not all arthritis is the same. The two most prevalent types are Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Osteoarthritis (OA), and understanding the distinctions between the two can help patients manage their symptoms more effectively and seek the appropriate treatment.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, specifically the synovium–the lining of the membranes that surround the joints and help it move smoothly. This causes inflammation that can lead to joint damage and deformities over time. Patients might also experience systemic symptoms like fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite. Onset can occur at any age, but RA is most commonly diagnosed in adults between age 30-60. 1.5 million people in the U.S. have RA, and women are three times more likely than men to develop the condition. The exact cause is unknown, but genetic and environmental factors play a significant role.

Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis may include physical therapy and low impact exercise to improve mobility, anti-inflammatory medications to alleviate pain, steroids, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or biologics to slow the progression, and joint replacement surgery. There is no cure for RA, but the goal of treatment is to limit joint damage and put the disease into remission.

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, is a degenerative joint disease that primarily affects the cartilage–the tissue that covers the ends of the bones in a joint. Over time, the cartilage breaks down, causing bones to rub against each other. This leads to pain, swelling, and decreased mobility. Unlike RA, OA is generally associated with wear and tear of the joints. Symptoms, including pain, tenderness, stiffness, and loss of flexibility, are typically localized to the affected joints. Risk factors for osteoarthritis include age, joint injuries, repetitive stress on the joint, and obesity.

Atlantic Orthopaedics’ Dr. Akhil Sastry is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who specializes in hip and knee joint replacement. He is a pioneer of robotic-assisted total knee replacement and has performed the surgery over 1,000 times. A recent patient had this to say about his experience with Dr. Sastry:

“I had an excellent experience and result with Dr. Sastry. He worked with me prior to surgery to ensure I could continue the activities important to me despite having osteoarthritis in the knee. After a year and a half, we agreed that I needed surgery and Dr. Sastry gave me a partial knee replacement. The pre op communication and approach were not only effective but used the latest practices to minimize pain and recover quickly. The entire surgical team helped make the surgery itself a success. But the proof is in the result, after 8 weeks of physical therapy, I am back doing the sports I love like tennis and bike riding. I am very grateful to Dr. Sastry and his team.”

Below, Dr. Sastry answers a frequently asked question about osteoarthritis.

What are the best ways to handle osteoarthritis in my knee and what are the options for treatment for a very active senior who wants to stay active?*

Treatment options range from weight loss, low impact exercises (biking, elliptical, swimming), over the counter anti-inflammatory medications, injections, and joint replacement surgeries. Depending on the severity of disease and the limitations that are inflicted, an orthopedic surgeon can implement a treatment program that would be the most suitable for your needs.

Managing Osteoarthritis in the Knee: Treatment Options for Active Seniors

Physical activity: Staying active is one of the most effective ways to manage knee osteoarthritis. Gentle exercise like walking or swimming can help maintain joint flexibility and strengthen the muscles around the knee, providing better support and joint stability.
Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the stress on your knees. Even a small amount of weight loss can significantly decrease the load on your knee joints, alleviating pain and slowing the progression of OA. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids can also help improve symptoms.
Physical therapy: A physical therapist can create a personalized exercise program to improve your knee’s strength and flexibility. They can also teach you techniques to modify your movements to reduce pain and prevent further damage.
Injections: Corticosteroid injections can provide temporary pain relief by reducing inflammation in the knee joint. Hyaluronic acid injections, which mimic the natural fluid in your knee, can also help lubricate the joint.
Surgical options: If conservative treatments aren’t providing sufficient relief and your mobility is impaired, surgery may be advised. Arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure, can be used to remove damaged cartilage or bone fragments. In more severe cases, partial or total knee replacement surgery might be necessary. These procedures can significantly reduce pain and improve function, allowing you to remain active.

If you are suffering from joint pain due to arthritis, don’t delay getting treatment. There are many options, both non-surgical and surgical, that can improve your quality of life and get you back to doing the activities you love. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Sastry to discuss a treatment plan tailored to your needs and lifestyle.

*Medical Disclosure: The information provided on this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we do not dispense medical advice or treatments to individuals who have not been seen by a healthcare professional.

It’s crucial to understand that every individual’s medical situation is unique, and what may work for one person may not necessarily work for another. Additionally, individuals may have underlying health conditions, allergies, or other factors that require personalized attention and consultation with a qualified healthcare provider.

Therefore, we strongly advise individuals to consult with a licensed healthcare professional before initiating any new treatments, making changes to their current treatment regimen, or addressing any medical concerns. This includes seeking professional guidance for managing allergies, assessing potential medication interactions, and ensuring overall safety and efficacy of any suggested treatments.

We are not liable for any actions taken based on the information provided on this blog. The responsibility for healthcare decisions lies solely with the individual and their healthcare provider. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional promptly.

Embracing Cutting-Edge Technology: Dr. Sastry’s Experience with Stryker at the AAOS Conference

As orthopedic surgeons, staying at the forefront of advancements in medical technology is crucial for providing the best possible care to patients. Recently, Dr. Sastry had an exciting opportunity that not only showcases the innovative strides in orthopedics but also highlights the trust in his skills. Stryker, a leading medical device company in orthopedics, reached out to Dr. Sastry after learning about his plans to attend the 2024 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) conference. The request? To conduct a live demonstration of the robotic-assisted total knee replacement on Thursday, February 15th. This wasn’t his first time being asked to showcase this groundbreaking procedure; he had the honor a few years ago as well.

The AAOS Conference
The AAOS conference is the largest orthopedic gathering nationally, attracting thousands of surgeons from around the world. This prestigious event was hosted in San Francisco, providing a platform for professionals to exchange knowledge, discuss advancements, and explore the latest technologies in the field. It’s an incredible opportunity to network, learn, and contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of orthopedic surgery.

Stryker’s Leadership in Orthopedics
Stryker’s invitation underscores their position as a trailblazer in the orthopedic industry. With a focus on developing cutting-edge medical devices, Stryker has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation. Their commitment to advancing technology has not only transformed surgical procedures but has also improved patient outcomes, making them a trusted name in the medical community.

Robotic-Assisted Total Knee Replacement
The robotic-assisted total knee replacement is a prime example of the revolutionary technologies introduced by companies like Stryker. This procedure combines the precision of robotics with the expertise of surgeons, enhancing accuracy and optimizing the patient’s experience. As Dr. Sastry demonstrated this technique at the AAOS conference, it’s a testament to the collaborative efforts between medical professionals and industry leaders to bring about positive change in orthopedic care.

Promoting the Future of Orthopedics
The significance of this opportunity extends beyond the conference walls. It’s an opportunity to showcase the advancements in orthopedics to a global audience, but more importantly, it’s an opportunity to promote the benefits of such groundbreaking procedures offered to our patients. By embracing innovative technologies, Atlantic Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine can offer patients improved outcomes, quicker recoveries, and a better quality of life.

Dr. Sastry enjoyed sharing this experience with colleagues from around the world and, more importantly, with patients who stand to benefit from these advancements in orthopedic care.

Advances in Hip and Knee Replacement: ‘All About Robotic Surgery’ – An In Person Event with Dr. Morwood

Is hip or knee pain keeping you from the activities you love?
Take the first step towards recovery and learn how robotic assisted joint replacement surgery can improve your quality of life. Attend this FREE educational event with Dr. Michael Morwood!

Advances in Hip and Knee Replacement: ‘All About Robotic Surgery’
Thursday, July 14th, 2022 | 5:30pm – 7:30pm
Sheraton Portland at Sable Oaks
200 Sable Oaks Dr. South Portland, ME 04106
Light refreshments will be provided.

REGISTER NOW!
Scan the QR Code below or click HERE to get your tickets!

Dr. Sastry Leads MAKO Robotics Training at The New England Baptist Hospital

July 2020 – Dr. Akhil Sastry, Board-Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon and provider at Atlantic Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine recently led a MAKO Robotics training at the New England Baptist Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. Dr. Sastry was the sole faculty member to facilitate the launch of their MAKO Robotics training program.

As robotic-assisted knee and hip replacement surgeries penetrate Boston’s most elite academic and fellowship programs, Portsmouth’s very own Mako Master Surgeon Akhil Sastry was selected to facilitate the launch at the New England Baptist, one of the most heralded institutions of orthopedics in the country.

To prepare for their first robotic knee surgery in a few weeks, Dr. Sastry trained a total of 8 surgeons in this one-time training session and has been invited back to provide additional training to another group of surgeons on August 6, 2020.

Dr. Sastry provided hands-on training and proctoring on how to perform this innovative and cutting-edge procedure. Dr. Sastry was not only one of the first surgeons to perform a robotic-assisted knee replacement in the world in 2017, in addition, he continues to teach and advance robotic concepts with joint replacements nationally. He has been selected to Chair these programs on many occasions and has trained over 100 surgeons from across the country.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Sastry.

All About Robotic Surgery – Free Webinar – July 8th, 2020

Please join us on Zoom for another FREE virtual webinar with Dr. Michael Morwood on Wednesday, July 8, 2020, from 5:30-6:30pm.

Dr. Morwood will discuss common causes for hip and knee pain and advances in robotic assisted joint replacements that can help you get back to doing what you love. There will be a brief Q & A session following the presentation. If you’re experiencing joint pain, you won’t want to miss this FREE event.

Topics will include understanding joint paint, your treatment options, joint replacement surgery and recovery expectations.

**Registration is required to attend this webinar, to register please click HERE.

FREE Webinar with Dr. Michael Morwood – Hip & Knee Replacements

Grab your lunch and join us on Zoom for a virtual webinar with Dr. Michael Morwood on Wednesday, June 24, 2020, from 12–1 p.m.

Dr. Morwood will discuss common causes for hip and knee pain and advances in robotic-assisted joint replacements that can help you get back to doing what you love. There will be a brief Q & A session following the presentation. If you’re experiencing joint pain, you won’t want to miss this FREE event. For more information or to register, please click HERE.

Robotics Surgery Growing Fast at Portsmouth Regional Hospital

Did you know Portsmouth Regional Hospital is a Center of Excellence for Robotic Surgery and now has the largest fleet of surgical robots on the Seacoast – including one Mako and two da Vinci robots?

Dr. Sastry, the first Master Robotics Surgeon in New England, was recently featured in the Portsmouth Herald talking about the accuracy and precision of joint replacement surgery using the Mako. “These are exciting times in the world of robotic surgery. The accuracy and precision of surgery is vastly improved, and surgery is less invasive and violent than previously. We rely on our technology, on AI to tell us, to simulate how the operation will go before it is performed. Each surgery is customized to the patient. We have done over 1,000 robotic surgeries at Portsmouth Regional Hospital!” said Sastry.

Read the full article HERE.

If you’re interested in learning more about robotic joint replacement, please contact us today!

Dr. Sastry Achieves Accreditation as Master Surgeon in Robotic Surgery

Dr. Akhilesh Sastry of Atlantic Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine has recently achieved accreditation as the first Master Surgeon in Robotic Surgery in New England by Surgical Review Corporation. This accreditation distinguishes Dr. Sastry from many other surgeons by providing the highest quality of care to patients as determined by an independent, external process of evaluation.

Status as an accredited Master Surgeon means that Dr. Sastry has met nationally recognized standards. Not all hospitals and surgeons seek accreditation; not all that undergo the rigorous on-site inspection process are granted accreditation.

Healthcare organizations and surgeons seeking accreditation by SRC undergo an extensive self-assessment and on-site inspection. This process includes physicians, nurses and administrators who are actively involved in the accredited program. The inspection is consultative and educational, presenting best practices to help an organization or surgeon improve its care and services.

Dr. Sastry began using the MAKO Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery System in 2016, and was the first surgeon in New Hampshire and Maine to perform a robotic-assisted knee replacement.
Dr. Sastry is also the premier robotic-assisted orthopaedic surgeon at Atlantic Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine and has privileges at both Portsmouth Regional Hospital and York Hospital.

About SRC – Established in 2003, Surgical Review Corporation (SRC) is an internationally recognized patient safety organization dedicated to recognizing and refining surgical care. SRC is the leading administrator of quality improvement and accreditation programs for surgeons and hospitals worldwide. SRC’s proven methodology, know as the “Cycle of Excellence,” results in quantifiable and unparalleled improvement in outcomes, patient safety and costs across surgical specialties. For more information, visit www.surgicalreview.org.

Dr. Akhil Sastry Will Teach at the Champions Mako Program

Dr. Akhil Sastry, Board-Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon and provider at Atlantic Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, will be on the faculty of Stryker’s Champions MAKO program on May 9 and 10 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Stryker is one of the world’s leading medical technology companies, and their MAKO system is a surgeon-controlled robotic arm that enables accurate alignment and placement of implants.

Their Champions program is a master’s instructional course for surgeons who have robotics experience, and are working to enhance their skills, technical know-how and understanding of the applications on the partial knee, total knee, and total hip with the MAKO robot.

Dr. Sastry has taught and chaired multiple MAKO courses for Stryker nationally. He began using the MAKO Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery System in 2016, and was the first surgeon in New Hampshire and Maine to perform a robotic-assisted knee replacement. Dr. Sastry has been participating in their educational programs throughout the country, teaching full knee, partial knee and total hip replacement on the robotic platform.

Dr. Sastry is also the premier robotic-assisted orthopaedic surgeon at Atlantic Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine. He states that the robot allows for a level of precision that enables a quick recovery and fewer issues for the patient once fully rehabilitated.

Atlantic Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine is a leading practice on the Seacoast, with offices in Portsmouth, New Hampshire and York, Maine. Their physicians have full medical staff privileges at both Portsmouth Regional Hospital and York Hospital.

Dr. Akhil Sastry To Teach Robotic Surgery Course In North Carolina

APRIL 27, 2019—Dr. Akhil Sastry, Board-Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon and provider at Atlantic Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, will teach a MAKO robotic surgery course on Saturday, April 27 in Pinehurst, North Carolina.

Surgeons in attendance will learn how to perform partial knee, total knee, and total hip surgery with the advanced technology. Dr. Sastry will also share his research demonstrating the benefits of robotic-assisted surgery, such as improved range of motion 90-day post-operation compared to patients who were manually operated on.

Stryker is one of the world’s leading medical technology companies, and their MAKO system is a surgeon-controlled robotic arm that enables accurate alignment and placement of implants.

Dr. Sastry has taught and chaired many courses for Stryker throughout the county. He began using the MAKO Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery System in 2016, and was the first surgeon in New Hampshire and Maine to perform a robotic-assisted knee replacement.

Dr. Sastry is also the premier robotic-assisted orthopaedic surgeon at Atlantic Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, and has said the robot allows for a level of precision that enables a quick recovery and fewer issues for the patient once fully rehabilitated.

Atlantic Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine is a leading practice on the Seacoast. They have offices in Portsmouth, New Hampshire and York, Maine, and physicians have full medical staff privileges at both Portsmouth Regional Hospital and York Hospital.