Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis, and millions of people worldwide suffer from it. It is classified as a degenerative joint disease because it causes cartilage, the tissue that protects the ends of the bones in the joints, to degenerate.
Bones start to rub against one another as cartilage becomes damaged, resulting in pain, swelling, and limited movement. In this article, we will cover the symptoms, causes, and treatment options available for osteoarthritis.
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis, characterised by the gradual breakdown of joint cartilage, the smooth and slippery tissue that covers the ends of bones at the joints, as well as the deterioration of the underlying bone.
This progressive disorder results from the cumulative wear and tear on joints over time. As the cartilage breaks down, bones begin to rub against each other, which leads to pain, inflammation, and the formation of bony growths called osteophytes or bone growths.
Numerous symptoms, such as chronic joint pain and stiffness, especially after rest or inactivity, swelling from soft tissue inflammation, and a marked reduction in range of motion, indicate the condition, which eventually makes it troublesome to perform daily tasks.
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
The symptoms of osteoarthritis can vary significantly from person to person and depend on which joints are affected. The most common symptoms include:
Pain
The primary sign of osteoarthritis is pain. Usually, it gets worse with movement and gets better with rest. As the illness worsens, the pain may become more severe or irregular, often arising after the joint has been in use for a while.
Stiffness
Joint stiffness is especially noticeable in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Morning stiffness usually lasts for less than 30 minutes but can significantly affect daily activities.
Swelling
Another common symptom is swelling around the affected joint. Because of the inflammation causing this swelling, the joint may appear larger than usual.
Decreased Range of Motion
As osteoarthritis advances, the range of movement in the affected joint may diminish. Because of this limitation, it could be challenging to carry out daily duties.
Grating Sensation
When moving the affected joint, a grating or grinding sensation can occur. It is due to the roughening of the cartilage and bones rubbing against each other.
Bone Spurs
Bone marrow or bone growths may form surrounding the affected joint. These extra bone fragments can worsen existing pain and limit joint motion.
Causes of Osteoarthritis
The precise cause of osteoarthritis remains unclear, but several factors contribute to its development:
Age
One of the main determinants of osteoarthritis is age. Older adults are usually at risk of the disease because of the ongoing wear and tear on their joints that comes with ageing. Osteoarthritis progresses as a result of the body’s declining capacity to repair joint tissue with ageing.
Genetics
Osteoarthritis has a genetic component. If there is a family history of it, you are more likely to get the illness yourself. Certain genetic markers have been connected to an increased risk of the condition, suggesting that the development of osteoarthritis may be affected by inherited traits.
Joint Injuries
Osteoarthritis in a joint can be more likely to develop later in life if the joint has been injured, such as in sports or accidents. Osteoarthritis can develop as a result of very minor injuries that cause joint instability and increased cartilage wear.
Obesity
When an individual carries excess weight, weight-bearing joints such as the hips and knees undergo increased pressure. This additional strain could accelerate cartilage degradation. Furthermore, inflammatory chemicals produced by fat tissue can worsen joint damage.
Joint Overuse
Osteoarthritis can develop because of constant motion at work or from activities that put an excessive amount of strain on a specific joint. People in particular professions and athletes are at greater risk. Overuse can result in tiny tears in the joint, which can eventually cause severe harm and osteoarthritis.
Other Diseases
Certain diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and metabolic disorders, can grow the risk of developing osteoarthritis. Conditions like diabetes and hemochromatosis can affect joint health and contribute to the degeneration of cartilage and joint tissues.
Treatment of Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis cannot be cured, but various treatments can support symptom management and betterment of overall well-being. Treatment plans are usually customised to the individual and may involve a combination of the following approaches:
Medications
Managing pain and inflammation from joint issues involves various medications. Pain can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers such as acetaminophen and NSAIDs. Topical treatments, including creams, gels, and patches, can be used directly to the skin over the joint to deliver relief right where it’s needed.
For more severe cases, corticosteroids can be injected into the joint to significantly lessen the inflammation and pain. Additionally, injections of hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in joint fluid, can offer extra lubrication and cushioning to the joint.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is essential for managing joint issues. A physiotherapist can create a customised exercise regimen to build strength in the muscles around the affected joint, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. Low-impact activities like swimming and cycling are frequently suggested to boost joint function while minimising stress on the joints.
Lifestyle Modifications
Maintaining a healthy weight is favourable for reducing stress on weight-bearing joints, which can help manage pain and prevent further damage. Engaging in regular exercise is also helpful for joint health. Activities like walking, swimming, and yoga can improve joint function and decrease pain.
Using assistive devices like braces, canes, or shoe inserts can provide extra support and lessen discomfort by relieving pressure from the affected joint.
Some individuals find relief from osteoarthritis symptoms through alternative therapies. Acupuncture and massage are popular choices, and dietary supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin may offer additional support for joint health.
Surgery
When other treatments prove ineffective, surgical options may be considered. Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure involving a small camera to remove loose cartilage or repair joint damage. Osteotomy reshapes bones to relieve pressure on the joint. In severe cases, joint replacement surgery, such as knee or hip replacement, can provide significant pain relief and improved function.
Prevention of Osteoarthritis
While total prevention of osteoarthritis may not be achievable, you can lower your risk by making certain lifestyle modifications. Maintaining a healthy weight alleviates strain on your joints, and engaging in consistent physical activity preserves joint flexibility and strengthens surrounding muscles. It’s crucial to prevent joint injuries by wearing the proper protective equipment and lifting techniques. A balanced diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains also promotes the general health of joints.
Conclusion
In conclusion, osteoarthritis is a chronic illness that can seriously lower one’s quality of life. Still, many osteoarthritis patients can lead active, happy lives if they use suitable treatment techniques. Early diagnosis and an extensive treatment plan tailored to each patient are critical for managing symptoms and halting the disease’s progression. By being proactive and educating themselves about the causes, symptoms, and available treatments of osteoarthritis, people can effectively manage the condition.
