PlushCare / Online Doctor / Primary Care / Osteoarthritis
In order to treat your osteoarthritis, consult with one of our board-certified doctors online today to prescribe medications to get relief from joint pain. Get a new prescription to treat osteoarthritis or refill an existing prescription today.
Medication services available 24/7 for adults and kids (3+)
Top quality, board-certified doctors
No insurance needed
Same-day prescriptions available*
*Prescriptions provided at doctor’s discretion
Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less. Otherwise, new patient visits are $129 and follow-ups are only $69 for members.
Step 1
Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
Step 2
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
Step 3
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Step 1
Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
Step 2
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
Step 3
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
How pricing works
To request osteoarthritis treatment and get a new or refill on your prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
$14.99/month
First month free
Copay
For all visits
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
$14.99/month
First month free
$129
Repeats only $69
Initial visits are $129 and follow-ups are only $69 for active members.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that affects joint tissue. OA happens when the protective cartilage, the tissue that cushions the ends of bones within joints, breaks down.
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. While OA can affect any joint, it often affects joints in the hands, knees, hips, and spine. Although joint damage cannot be reserved, arthritis symptoms can be managed with the right treatment plan.
Osteoarthritis occurs when the joint cartilage between bones breaks down or wears away. Over time, as the cartilage wears down, it causes bone to rub against bone. OA is commonly referred to as a "wear-and-tear" disease. Beyond the breakdown of cartilage, OA can affect the entire joint. It causes changes in the tissues that hold joints together, along with inflammation and pain. While anyone can develop osteoarthritis, some factors that can contribute to arthritis include:
Over-the-counter and prescription medications for OA are available in the form of pills, patches, gels, creams, and injectables. Your doctor will consider your medical history and symptoms to choose the best medication for you. Common medications for OA include:
Acetaminophen
NSAIDs work by reducing inflammation and pain.
When rubbed on the skin, counterirritants containing menthol, capsaicin, and/or lidocaine
create a feeling of cold or heat over the painful joint or muscle.
Cortisone
Prednisolone
Methylprednisolone
Dexamethasone
Betamethasone
Hydrocortisone
It’s not possible to prevent OA altogether. However, you can lower your risk factors for developing OA by avoiding joint injuries and living a healthy lifestyle. Some effective preventive measures include:
If you experience chronic pain or stiffness in your joints, make an appointment with your doctor to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
OA treatment can significantly improve your quality of life by managing pain and reducing inflammation. If needed, your doctor can prescribe a prescription for osteoarthritis treatment online.
Gout
Inflammatory arthritis
Lupus
Psoriatic arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis
There is no cure for OA, but several treatment options can help individuals with OA manage joint pain. Effective treatments for OA include:
For many people with arthritis, symptoms build gradually over time. OA symptoms can include:
The symptoms of OA include:
Pain, aching, or stiffness in the affected joint
Limited range of motion (or flexibility)
Pain that worsens after activities or at the end of the day
Joint swelling and inflammation
Discomfort when pressing on areas with your fingers
Swelling, clicking, popping, or cracking sounds
The symptoms of arthritis can vary from person to person. The symptoms develop gradually over time and progressively intensity.
Osteoarthritis occurs when joint cartilage—the tissue that cushions the ends of bones—wears down over time. When joint cartilage breaks down completely, bones will rub against over bones, leading to joint pain.
Several factors can lead to an increased risk of OA, including:
Age. The risk of developing osteoarthritis increases with age. In general, symptoms appear in people over 50, but they can also appear in young people who have experienced joint injuries.
Gender. Women are more likely to develop OA than men.
Obesity. Excess weight adds stress to weight-bearing joints. At the same time, fat tissue produces proteins that cause joint inflammation.
Overuse. Repeated joint movements at work or during sports can wear down joint cartilage.
Joint injury. Injuries can strain your joints, increasing the risk of OA. For example, a bone fracture or ligament tear can cause OA. Even older injuries that have seemingly healed lead to an increased risk.
Genetics. Those who have family members with OA are more likely to develop the condition.
It’s not always possible to prevent OA, but preventive measures can help lower your risk:
Get plenty of exercise, eat a balanced diet, and maintain a healthy weight.
Avoid repetitive joint motions or activities that strain joints.
Practice good posture and avoid staying in the same position for too long.
Protect your joints with low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and cycling.
