Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It's a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time. While it can damage any joint, it most commonly affects joints in the hands, knees, hips, and spine.

Unlike rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune disease, osteoarthritis is primarily a "wear and tear" condition that typically develops gradually. While it can't be cured, symptoms can be effectively managed with a combination of treatments, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery.

Osteoarthritis symptoms develop slowly and worsen over time:

• Joint Pain: Often worse after activity or at end of day
• Stiffness: Especially in the morning or after inactivity
• Tenderness: Joint feels tender when light pressure is applied
• Loss of Flexibility: Reduced range of motion
• Grating Sensation: Feeling or hearing popping or crackling
• Bone Spurs: Extra bits of bone that form around affected joints
• Swelling: May occur due to soft tissue inflammation

Commonly Affected Joints:

• Fingers (especially tips and base of thumb)
• Knees
• Hips
• Lower back
• Neck

Lifestyle Modifications:

1. Exercise:

   • Low-impact activities (swimming, walking, cycling)
   • Strengthening exercises for muscles around joints
   • Range-of-motion exercises
   • Avoid high-impact activities that stress joints

2. Weight Management:

   • Extra weight puts stress on weight-bearing joints
   • Even small weight loss can significantly reduce pain
   • Reduces inflammation

3. Heat and Cold Therapy:

   • Heat for stiffness (warm bath, heating pad)
   • Cold for acute pain and swelling (ice pack)
   • Alternate as needed

4. Assistive Devices:

   • Canes, walkers, or braces
   • Shoe inserts or orthotics
   • Ergonomic tools for daily activities

5. Pacing Activities:

   • Balance activity with rest
   • Don't overdo it on good days
   • Break tasks into smaller parts

• Joint pain interfering with daily activities
• Symptoms not improving with self-care
• Joint appears deformed
• Significant loss of function
• Need for pain management
• Considering surgery

• Mild symptoms well-managed
• Following treatment plan
• Symptoms stable or improving

Diagnosis typically involves:

1. Medical History and Physical Exam:

   • Description of symptoms
   • Joint examination
   • Assessment of range of motion

2. Imaging Tests:

   • X-rays: Show bone damage and cartilage loss
   • MRI: More detailed images of soft tissues
   • CT Scan: Detailed bone images

3. Lab Tests:

   • Usually not needed for diagnosis
   • May rule out other types of arthritis
   • Blood tests if rheumatoid arthritis suspected

Non-Surgical Treatments:

1. Medications:

   • Pain Relievers: Acetaminophen, NSAIDs
   • Topical: Creams, gels applied to skin
   • Injections: Corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid

2. Physical Therapy:

   • Strengthening exercises
   • Range-of-motion exercises
   • Pain management techniques

3. Occupational Therapy:

   • Ways to perform daily tasks
   • Joint protection techniques
   • Assistive devices

Surgical Options (if other treatments fail):

• Joint replacement
• Joint fusion
• Osteotomy (bone realignment)

While osteoarthritis can't always be prevented:

• Maintain Healthy Weight: Reduces stress on joints
• Exercise Regularly: Strengthens muscles, maintains flexibility
• Protect Joints:
  • Use proper technique in sports and activities
  • Avoid repetitive stress
  • Wear protective equipment
• Manage Injuries: Proper treatment of joint injuries
• Listen to Your Body: Rest when needed

In healthy joints, cartilage covers the ends of bones, providing smooth movement. In osteoarthritis:

1. Cartilage Breakdown: Protective cartilage wears away
2. Bone Changes: Bones may thicken and form spurs
3. Inflammation: Joint lining may become inflamed
4. Pain and Stiffness: Results from these changes

The process is gradual and progressive, typically developing over many years.

• Most common in people over 50
• May have multiple affected joints
• Higher risk of falls due to pain/stiffness
• May need more aggressive treatment

• Can develop earlier, especially with:
  • Previous joint injuries
  • Repetitive stress
  • Genetic factors
  • Obesity

• Early intervention important
• Maintain healthy lifestyle
• Protect joints from injury

No. Osteoarthritis is wear-and-tear damage, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. OA typically affects specific joints, while RA often affects joints symmetrically.

No. Appropriate exercise actually helps. It strengthens muscles around joints, maintains flexibility, and can reduce pain. Avoid high-impact activities that stress affected joints.

Not necessarily. Many people manage OA effectively without surgery. Surgery is typically considered when other treatments haven't helped and pain significantly affects quality of life.

While no specific diet cures OA, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial. Some foods may have anti-inflammatory effects, but evidence is limited. Focus on overall healthy eating.

No. While risk increases with age, OA isn't inevitable. Many factors influence development, including genetics, previous injuries, and lifestyle factors.