About CAM
Comprehensive Arthritis Management, Inc. is a private orthopaedic practice based in Toronto, Canada, specializing in advice and treatment options to manage pain and functional disability caused by osteoarthritis. We develop personalized treatment plans for each patient, focusing on the incremental application of safer and less invasive therapeutic options, leaving surgical interventions as a last resort.
Our research supports the further development and validation of the non-invasive treatment programmes, through a community-wide clinical registry and study of patient outcomes over time for different treatment paths.
K. Wayne Marshall, MD, PhD, FRCSC
CAM Vision​
Apply a programmatic approach to arthritis care, emphasizing the use of non-surgical therapies as safe and effective alternatives, leaving invasive surgical options as the last resort.
Osteoarthritis Overview
About OA
Osteoarthritis is a joint condition in which the articular cartilage that normally provides a smooth, stable surface, begins to break down. This compromises the normal smooth, painless functioning of joint surfaces. Common causes of OA are aging, genetic predisposition, gender, joint injury, obesity and overuse.
Symptoms
As joint cartilage begins to fail, small molecules are released which cause an inflammatory reaction. This leads to aching pain, swelling, weakness and stiffness. Mechanical symptoms such as crunching, grinding or locking may also occur, caused by unstable fragments of cartilage or soft tissue problems such as meniscus tears.
Treatment
The treatment of osteoarthritis focuses on managing inflammation as a first step. If the inflammatory reaction of the joint can be effectively treated, patients can function well with little or no symptoms despite having significant underlying OA damage. For certain joints with advanced OA, surgical options may be required.
Triage
When assessing a patient for OA, the key is to determine whether there are significant mechanical symptoms that necessitate surgical intervention. Fortunately, most patients do not require surgery, and less invasive therapy options directed at reducing inflammation can be considered. Learn more about therapies >