Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis one of the most common types of arthritis.

Osteoarthritis causes a breakdown in the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones where they meet to form a joint, causing potentially debilitating Osteoarthritis pain. Osteoarthritis usually occurs in the fingers and load-bearing joints, including the knees, ankles, feet, hips, and back. Osteoarthritis knee pain is possibly the most common condition.

Osteoarthritis Symptoms

The most common symptoms of Osteoarthritis are pains in the joints and muscles. Osteoarthritis tends to be felt most in the weight bearing joints. These include the knees, hands, ankles, hips and arms.

Other important symptoms that may help diagnose Osteoarthritis from other types of arthritis include, the appearance of bony growths in the joints, snapping of joints, loss of joint movement, stiffness of joints together with swelling, and an overall decrease in loss of joint movement.

The symptoms of Osteoarthritis vary from person to person, however, most people remain essentially free of Osteoarthritis symptoms. 

Osteoarthritis Risk Factors

The main risk factors for Osteoarthritis include:

• A sustained injury in the patient's past medical history 
• Age is a significant factor. Women are more susceptible to developing Osteoarthritis after the age of 45. Men on the other hand appear more susceptible to developing Osteoarthritis earlier, often demonstrating the first symptoms of the disease prior to age 45. Gender is not understood to be a risk factor because both women and men are at risk 
• Diabetes, poor posture, and dislocated hips 
• Obesity – people who are just overweight, and not categorized as obese, may be a higher risk 
• Congenital deformity – individuals born with congenital deformities are much more likely to suffer from joint injuries and consequently an Osteoarthritis disability. 

Causes ofOsteoarthritis

Current research indicates Osteoarthritis is caused by changes within the cells of the cartilage, which result in a loss of cartilage elasticity. As a result of this, the cartilage gradually wears thin and may even break down, leaving the ends of the bones unprotected. As a result, the joint loses its smooth functioning.

Contrary to popular belief, vigorous use of a joint does not necessarily lead to Osteoarthritis. In fact, an increasing body of research evidence suggests the very opposite may be true - that vigorous use of a joint prevents Osteoarthritis. 

Diagnosing Osteoarthritis

To obtain a diagnosis for Osteoarthritis, a doctor may perform one or more of the following tests:

• Physical medical examination

• Medical history check,

• X-Rays of the affected joints, and/or,

• Take a fluid sample from the affected joint

• Blood tests

These tests will help to confirm a diagnosis, or help rule out other types of arthritis. 

Complications and Issues affecting Osteoarthritis

Like all forms of Arthritis, if left untreated, the sufferer may experience severe pain and discomfort, which will impact on all facets of their life.

Treatment of Osteoarthritis

There are a variety of Osteoarthritis treatments and management techniques available to assist people reduce and control the effects of this disease. Each Osteoarthritis treatment and therapy program should be individually designed in consultation with your doctor.

Osteoarthritis treatments usually involve a combination of appropriate exercise, medication, education, joint protection, and a healthy weight program. Most Osteoarthritis treatment will focus on reducing inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joints.

Conventional Osteoarthritis treatment options may include drug therapy, surgical intervention, lifestyle management, and physical and occupational therapy.

• Most drug therapy involves the use of NSAID class drugs. These are widely used drugs that are non-steroidal and that help control inflammation. Whilst effective, they have also been linked to side effects, including gastrointestinal ulcers and kidney problems. 
• Corticosteroids are also used. Effective in controlling the main symptoms of Osteoarthritis but the steroid element may not be appropriate for everyone and long-term use of corticosteroid drugs has also been linked to side effects. 
• Surgical intervention – this is often necessary to repair damaged joints such as hip replacement surgery. 
• Lifestyle management is another important part of Osteoarthritis treatment. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, eating a well-rounded nutrient rich diet, and getting enough physical exercise to keep your joints and muscles healthy and strong. 
• Physical and Occupational therapy are also important parts of treating Osteoarthritis. 

As with all forms of Arthritis, treatment will provide the best results if:

• Sufferers make efforts to learn about and understand their condition.

• Sufferers learn techniques to help manage their arthritis.

• Sufferers should begin treatment as soon as possible to begin managing the condition, reduce pain and discomfort, minimise joint and bone deterioration, and help maintain mobility.

• Sufferers should consult their doctor or rheumatologist regularly so that they can keep up to date with new treatments and management techniques. 

Prevention of Osteoarthritis

It is not possible to prevent the development of this form of Arthritis, however, the symptoms of the condition can be managed and treated to reduce, discomfort, pain and damage to joints and bones.

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