Osteoporosis Archive

Sacroiliac joint pain is felt in the lower back and buttocks, usually on one side of the body. The cause is often not known. Common treatments include physical therapy, bracing, steroid injections, and radiofrequency ablation.

Knee pain has many possible causes, including osteoarthritis, meniscus tears, tendon problems, and ligament injuries. Doctors make a diagnosis with targeted questions, a physical examination, and possibly imaging studies. Treatment depends on the diagnosis but often includes medication, physical therapy, and exercise.

Many people with gout are at increased risk for heart disease, possibly due to shared risk factors and the effects of chronic inflammation on the heart and blood vessels. Medication to treat gout, along with dietary changes and regular physical activity, can lower risks.

Several factors increase the risk for complications from COVID-19 or influenza and should prompt someone to request an antiviral medication as soon as possible, even if they have been vaccinated or have had the infections before. The risk factors are age (being 65 or older), an impaired immune system, and underlying conditions (especially heart or lung disease). Pregnant women also are at increased risk for severe influenza and COVID, and should consider taking an antiviral.

Carpal tunnel syndrome, caused by compression of the median nerve in the wrist, is felt as numbness, tingling, and burning in the fingers, often at night. Early treatment with a wrist splint, ergonomic changes to keep the wrist in a straight position, and exercises can alleviate symptoms.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections use concentrated platelets from your blood to treat mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis. Research and guidelines support the use of PRP injections when pain and other symptoms persist despite exercise, physical therapy, and use of pain medications.

GLP-1 drugs, such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, used for diabetes and weight loss, may also reduce knee osteoarthritis pain and delay knee replacement surgery. In a large 2026 study, the use of any GLP-1 was linked to a reduced likelihood of knee replacement over eight years.

Lyme disease, transmitted by deer ticks, may not be detected early on. If left untreated, the infection can lead to Lyme arthritis, marked by joint swelling, often in the knee. Most cases respond to antibiotics, though some require additional treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a nerve disease most often caused by compression, inflammation, or irritation of the tibial nerve inside the ankle. Symptoms include burning, tingling, and numbness in the foot. It may result from flat feet, injury, or swelling. Standard treatment involves physical therapy and shoes or orthotics with arch support.