COVER STORY Growing older “doesn’t mean
accepting pain or giving up activities that you love.
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Dr. Noelle Guthrie
Osteoarthritis: A Growing Epidemic Osteoarthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States. More than 33 million Americans are living with this progressive condition which is triggered by the gradual deterioration of the cartilage that cushions the joints, leading to significant pain and disability. Many people incorrectly assume that joint pain simply comes with age, but reduced mobility, independence, and quality of life doesn’t have to be your fate.
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steoarthritis may be common, but living with pain doesn’t have to be. Dr. Noelle DiGioia Guthrie, an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee arthritis, helps patients understand all their options – from prevention and lifestyle modifications to injections to advanced surgical treatments when indicated. Her focus is on helping patients stay active, maintaining independence and participating in the activities they enjoy..
Understanding Degenerative Joint Disease
Osteoarthritis, sometimes called degenerative joint disease (DJD), occurs when the cartilage that cushions the end of the bones
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wears away. As that protective layer breaks down, the bones will begin to rub against one another, leading to pain, swelling and loss of function. This final stage is referred to as “bone-on-bone.” Since this process is gradual, early evaluations are important in order to slow down the process. While arthritis has traditionally been associated with older adults, today’s patients are developing symptoms and seeking treatment earlier than previous generations. In fact, adults ages 50 to 65 now represent one of the fastest-growing groups undergoing joint replacement surgery. As Americans live longer, remain active later in life, and rates of obesity continue to rise, more individuals are experi-
Summer 2026 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com
encing joint pain that affects their ability to stay independent, exercise, travel and enjoy daily activities. Because of this, the demand for joint replacement is also growing. By 2040, annual knee replacements are projected to