Osteoarthritis is a condition that affects the joints of the body. It’s a common problem with several causes, including genetic changes and problems with collagen, a rigid protein in the connective tissues. Other risk factors for osteoarthritis include obesity, injury, and surgery. Additionally, people with specific joint abnormalities may have more stress placed on their joints and be more likely to develop osteoarthritis.
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Symptoms
The symptoms of osteoarthritis include pain and stiffness in the joints. They also cause deformity and may lead to joint lock, reducing joint stability. Osteoarthritis is not an inflammatory condition, so the pain is localized and usually less severe than other forms of arthritis. However, symptoms can vary depending on which joint is affected. Morning stiffness and pain are standard and tend to recur after periods of inactivity.
There are many lifestyle changes and medications that can help manage osteoarthritis. For example, taking a hot water bottle can help relieve pain. You can also try heating a wheat-bag in the microwave. Another effective method is applying ice to the affected joint. It helps reduce swelling. Other measures to manage the symptoms of osteoarthritis include wearing a brace or supporting a splint. Physiotherapists will be able to recommend a brace or splint that best fits your needs.
You must consult your doctor as soon as possible if you have osteoarthritis. Early diagnosis is critical because early treatment can help patients stay active and minimize the damage to their joints. Treatments for osteoarthritis aim to alleviate the pain and allow patients to return to enjoying the activities they love.
Treatments
In addition to conventional medical therapies, many patients with osteoarthritis may want to try complementary and alternative treatments. These methods can be done at home and may help decrease joint pain and mobility. They are considered safe and do not require a prescription, but discussing the benefits and risks of these methods with your doctor is essential.
Your healthcare provider will determine whether you have osteoarthritis by reviewing your health history and performing an examination. X-rays may be required to rule out other causes of pain. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is also a helpful diagnostic tool. This type of scan uses strong magnetic fields to reveal the internal structures of the joints. However, MRIs are not always necessary and are usually only needed for complicated cases. If you are experiencing symptoms that do not improve with non-surgical treatments, your physician may refer you to an orthopedic surgeon or joint disorder specialist.
Patients may also try assistive devices to help them walk more comfortably. These devices can help stabilize joints and reduce pain. Another option is the use of viscosupplements. These contain substances similar to those found in joint fluid, such as hyaluronic acid, which can help reduce pain and swelling. Another treatment for osteoarthritis that is relatively new is platelet-rich plasma. This type of treatment uses the healing components of your blood to treat osteoarthritis.
Complications
People with osteoarthritis are at a higher risk of falling, leading to severe injuries. This is due to the decreased stability of joints and the weakness of muscles and ligaments. Patients should discuss their risk of falling with their healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan addressing their condition’s severity.
Osteoarthritis is a disease that affects any joint in the body but most commonly affects the knee, hip, spine, and hands. People with this condition commonly experience a “grating” sensation while moving their joints. Those with the disease may also hear popping noises when moving their joints. People may also notice that their knees tend to bend inward. Moreover, they may experience swelling around the joint, called a Baker’s cyst.
Osteoarthritis is an inflammatory disease of the joints caused by the breakdown of cartilage in the joints. As the cartilage deteriorates, the spaces between bones become narrower. People suffering from this condition may also experience morning stiffness, swelling, and pain after activity. Fortunately, treatment for osteoarthritis is available to control the progression of this disease and prevent its complications.
Prevention
Prevention of osteoarthritis involves following a few fundamental principles. The first is to avoid repetitive movements or activities that may lead to joint problems. It also involves maintaining good body mechanics and posture. The second is to reduce the amount of stress placed on joints. Repetitive stress is often a result of repetitive motions, overexertion, or improper posture.
Prevention research is an important priority, as the prevalence of osteoarthritis is predicted to rise in the coming years. This will increase the burden on the health care system and society. As a result, the research needs to be intensified and implemented. The strategy can be found in the National Osteoarthritis Strategy.
There are two types of osteoarthritis: primary osteoarthritis and secondary osteoarthritis. Primary osteoarthritis is caused by damage to the cartilage surrounding the joints. It can affect any joint but is more common in older people. In severe cases, the cartilage can break down and cause the bones to rub together. In addition, cartilage damage can trigger bone growth around the joints.
