Arthritis and Joint Pain

Arthritis and Joint Pain: When Is It Time for Orthopedic Surgery in Nashua, NH?

Nearly 60 million Americans live with some form of arthritis, making it one of the leading causes of disability in the United States. For many people, arthritis begins as a mild inconvenience and gradually becomes a daily struggle, limiting mobility, disrupting sleep, and making even simple activities like walking, climbing stairs, or opening a jar feel difficult. May is National Arthritis Awareness Month, and at Nashua Ambulatory Surgical Center (NASC), we want to help patients across Southern New Hampshire understand their options and know when it might be time to take the next step.

The good news is that arthritis and joint pain are highly treatable conditions. Many patients find significant relief through conservative measures like physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and lifestyle modifications. But when those approaches are no longer enough, outpatient orthopedic surgery at a trusted facility like NASC can be a life-changing solution.

This article will help you understand the most common types of arthritis affecting the joints, what signs may indicate that surgery is appropriate, and what you can expect from the process at NASC, one of Southern New Hampshire’s most trusted ambulatory surgical centers.

Common Types of Arthritis That May Require Orthopedic Surgery

There are more than 100 types of arthritis, but the two most commonly treated with orthopedic surgery are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones gradually wears down over time. It most often affects the knees, hips, shoulders, and hands, and is especially common in adults over 50. OA is a degenerative condition, meaning it tends to worsen over time without appropriate management. When the cartilage is significantly worn, bone rubs directly against bone, causing pain, swelling, and loss of motion.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints. Unlike OA, RA can affect people of any age and often involves multiple joints simultaneously. Over time, the inflammation caused by RA can permanently damage joint tissue, leading to deformity and significant functional limitations. In advanced cases, surgical intervention may be needed to restore function and relieve chronic pain.

Signs It May Be Time to Consider Orthopedic Surgery

Surgery is not always the first option for arthritis or joint pain, and at NASC, our physicians always take a thorough, individualized approach to treatment. That said, there are clear signs that conservative care is no longer sufficient and that a surgical consultation may be appropriate:

  • Persistent pain that does not improve with rest, medication, or physical therapy
  • Significant loss of range of motion that limits your ability to perform daily tasks
  • Joint instability or a feeling that your knee or shoulder is “giving out”
  • Swelling and inflammation that does not respond to anti-inflammatory treatment
  • Imaging (X-ray or MRI) showing significant structural damage to the joint
  • A sharp decline in quality of life due to joint pain or limited mobility

If you recognize any of these signs, connecting with one of our orthopedic specialists at NASC is a great first step. Our experienced physicians will review your history, examine your joint, and discuss all available options with you before recommending any course of action.

Orthopedic Procedures for Arthritis and Joint Pain at NASC

NASC offers a comprehensive range of outpatient orthopedic procedures to address arthritis-related joint damage and restore function. Our orthopedic and sports medicine services include:

Knee Arthroscopy

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure in which a small camera is inserted into the knee joint to assess and treat damage. It is commonly used to remove or repair damaged cartilage, address meniscus tears, and clean up debris caused by arthritis. Most patients go home the same day and can begin physical therapy relatively quickly.

Shoulder Arthroscopy

Similar to knee arthroscopy, shoulder arthroscopy allows surgeons to visualize and treat damage inside the shoulder joint through small incisions. It is used for a range of conditions, including rotator cuff repairs, labral tears, and shoulder impingement, many of which are aggravated or caused by underlying arthritis.

Hip Arthroscopy

Hip arthroscopy is a less invasive alternative to open hip surgery for certain conditions, including labral tears and femoroacetabular impingement, which often accompany hip arthritis. The procedure allows surgeons to address joint damage through small incisions, resulting in a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

Elbow and Ankle Procedures

Arthritis can also significantly affect the elbow and ankle joints. NASC surgeons perform arthroscopic and open procedures to address cartilage damage, loose bodies, and other arthritis-related issues in these joints, helping patients regain comfortable range of motion and return to daily activity.

Why Choose NASC for Arthritis-Related Orthopedic Surgery in Nashua, NH?

Patients across Southern New Hampshire choose NASC for orthopedic care because of our commitment to clinical excellence, compassionate service, and a seamless patient experience from consultation to recovery. Here is what sets NASC apart:

  • AAAHC accreditation and Medicare deemed status, ensuring the same safety and quality standards as a hospital
  • Two state-of-the-art operating suites equipped with the latest surgical technology
  • A team of board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons recognized by Castle Connolly Top Doctors
  • A streamlined outpatient experience that allows most patients to go home the same day
  • Convenient location at 15 Riverside Street, Nashua, NH, with easy access from Nashua, Bedford, and surrounding communities

To learn more about our facility or to complete online patient pre-registration, visit nascnh.com. Our team is available Monday through Friday, 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and can be reached at (603) 882-0950.

Living Well with Arthritis: Tips for Protecting Your Joints This Summer

Whether or not surgery is on your radar, there are steps you can take right now to protect your joints and slow the progression of arthritis. As the warmer months arrive and activity levels increase, keep these tips in mind:

  • Stay active with low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, and walking, which keep joints moving without excessive stress
  • Maintain a healthy weight, as extra body weight significantly increases the load on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips
  • Warm up before physical activity and cool down afterward to protect joint tissues
  • Listen to your body and rest when pain or swelling increases
  • Work with your physician to develop a comprehensive arthritis management plan that includes exercise, nutrition, and medication if needed

If your current management plan is no longer keeping up with your symptoms, it may be time to revisit your treatment options with an orthopedic specialist. The team at NASC is here to help you find a path forward.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can arthritis be cured with surgery?

Surgery does not cure arthritis, but it can significantly reduce pain, improve joint function, and restore quality of life. Procedures like arthroscopy can remove damaged tissue and debris that contribute to pain and inflammation, while other interventions address structural damage that limits mobility. Your orthopedic surgeon at NASC will help you understand what outcomes are realistic for your specific condition.

2. How do I know if I am a good candidate for outpatient arthritis surgery?

Candidacy for outpatient orthopedic surgery depends on the type and severity of your arthritis, your overall health, and the specific procedure being considered. Most healthy adults with arthritis affecting a single joint are good candidates for outpatient procedures at NASC. Your physician will evaluate your medical history and imaging studies to make an individualized recommendation.

3. What is recovery like after arthroscopic surgery for arthritis?

Recovery after arthroscopic procedures is generally faster than traditional open surgery. Most patients experience some soreness and swelling in the days following the procedure, which improves steadily with rest, ice, and physical therapy. Your surgeon will provide a detailed post-operative plan tailored to your specific procedure, including instructions on activity restrictions, wound care, and follow-up appointments.

4. Does NASC accept insurance for orthopedic procedures?

Yes. NASC accepts all major insurance carriers, including Medicare. We strongly recommend contacting your insurance provider before your procedure to confirm coverage and any pre-authorization requirements. Our billing team is available to assist with any questions about your benefits or payment options.

5. How do I schedule a consultation at NASC in Nashua, NH?

Start by visiting our Find a Physician page at nascnh.com to connect with one of our orthopedic specialists. You can also call our Nashua, NH office at (603) 882-0950, Monday through Friday, 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM, or visit our contact page for more information.

About Nashua Ambulatory Surgical Center (NASC)

NASC is a state-of-the-art, AAAHC-accredited outpatient surgical facility located in Nashua, NH, proudly serving patients across Southern New Hampshire since 2012. Specializing in orthopedics and sports medicine, ophthalmology, plastic surgery, and podiatry, NASC delivers exceptional care in a compassionate, patient-centered environment. To learn more, visit nascnh.com or call (603) 882-0950.

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