Overview

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common chronic condition of the joints. It occurs when the cartilage or cushion between joints breaks down leading to pain, stiffness and swelling.Sometimes called degenerative joint disease or “wear and tear” arthritis.

Symptoms

Sore or stiff joints – particularly the hips, knees, and lower back – after inactivity or overuse, Limited range of motion or stiffness that goes away after movement, Clicking or cracking sound when a joint bends, Mild swelling around a joint, Pain that is worse after activity or toward the end of the day

Causes

Osteoarthritis was long believed to be caused by the “wear and tear” of joints over time, Osteoarthritis has no specific cause. Several factors lead to the development of OA including excess weight. Being overweight puts additional pressure on hips and knees. Repetitive movements or injuries to joints (such as a fracture, surgery or ligament tears) can lead to osteoarthritis. Some athletes and genes, among others

Diagnosis

The diagnosis is based on information on personal and family medical history, symptoms a physical examination. These may be followed by laboratory tests, X-rays, and a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.

Prevention

The risk of OA can be reduced or its onset can be delayed after following recommendations from doctors; like maintain a Healthy Weight.Losing even a few pounds can reduce joint stress and inflammation, cutting your risk of OA in half.Control blood sugar, Involve in physical activity. As little as 30 minutes of moderately intense exercise five times a week helps joints stay limber and strengthens the muscles that support and stabilize your hips and knees.Protect yourself to avoid injury & choose healthy lifestyle.

Treatment

First recommendation is exercise & weight loss as per American College of Rheumatology (ACR).After this medicines like Analgesics including acetaminophen & oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) includes aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen and celecoxib, opioids (narcotics) and an atypical opioid called tramadol, corticosteroid joint injections, acupuncture, TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) or intra-articular hyaluronate injections for knee OA.As per recommendation of Orthopedic surgen; Joint surgery can repair or replace severely damaged joints, especially hips or knees.

Everyday Life

Osteoarthritis is a chronic (long-term) disease. There is no cure, but treatments are available to manage symptoms. Long-term management of the disease will include several factors: Managing symptoms, such as pain, stiffness and swelling, improving joint mobility and flexibility,maintaining a healthy weight & getting enough of exercise.

Resources

https://www.arthritis.org/about-arthritis