Arthritis Videos

If you believe osteoarthritis -- also known as “wear-and-tear” arthritis -- means a less active life, you are not alone. This misinformation is commonly, but incorrectly, accepted as fact. Here, Preston Roundy, a physical therapist at Duke Health, dispels common myths about osteoarthritis and shares information to help you or your loved ones manage the disease.

Being diagnosed with osteoarthritis (OA) does not always mean you have to give up running. While high impact sports like running can aggravate the symptoms of OA, it does not cause the disease. Here, Duke Health orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Jocelyn Wittstein and orthopaedic nurse practitioner Melissa Raddatz talk about small changes to your routine that make a big difference and what to do if running is causing you pain.

If you have pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion in your ankle, you could have ankle arthritis. Unlike arthritis of the hip or knee, ankle arthritis is most often the result of a prior injury, trauma, or longstanding joint instability. Here Dr. Karl Schweitzer, a foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon at Duke Health, discusses the causes of ankle arthritis, and various treatments including nonsurgical options like activity modification and surgical procedures such as ankle fusion and ankle replacement.

Painful knees are often a sign of osteoarthritis, a wearing down of the cartilage in the knees. It’s a common problem as we age, and your lifestyle and genetics are also factors. When your knee pain affects your ability to walk, move, work, and sleep, it's time to talk to your doctor. Here, Dr. Michael Bolognesi, an orthopedic surgeon at Duke Health, talks about osteoarthritis and other types of arthritis, treatment options, and when knee replacement surgery may be appropriate.

Greg Cox was a life-long athlete who longed to stay active but was severely limited by ankle pain and stiffness caused by ankle arthritis. Once a Division 1 lacrosse player, his mobility had declined so much that he could not even walk his dog. Cox found the help he needed at Duke Health, where foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon Dr. Karl Schweitzer performed a total ankle replacement. Today, Cox is back to participating in the activities he enjoys including water and snow skiing, pickle ball, and walking his dog. "Having my ankle replaced was probably the best thing I’ve ever done,” he said.

Maintaining a healthy weight, controlling inflammation, and keeping an eye on your vitamin D levels can help reduce pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis -- and may even slow progression of the disease. This video describes the links among excess body weight, inflammation, and osteoarthritis and what you can do to manage your condition and improve your quality of life.