Osteoarthritis: Everything You Need To Know

Blogs01 Oct 2024

Osteoarthritis or OA in short, is one of the most prevalent forms of arthritis that affects millions of adults in the world. A degenerative condition that targets the joints, Osteoarthritis can cause pain, and stiffness and in general can be debilitating. This condition is typically associated with old age, however, other factors may sometimes be at play.

In this article, we’ll learn all about Osteoarthritis, its causes, symptoms, and prevention techniques.

What is Osteoarthritis?

Arthritis is a condition associated with bones and joints and Osteoarthritis is one of the most common types of arthritis. Doctors and medical professionals refer to this condition as degenerative joint disease. It occurs when the cartilage that surrounds your joints is worn down with time, causing your bones to rub against one another when those joints are used.

But what does that mean? Well, for starters if you want to know what is osteoarthritis, you should understand what cartilage is. Cartilage is a strong connective tissue that lines the joints and works as a shock absorber and a lubricant. It enables you to use your joints smoothly and comfortably. During Osteoarthritis this cartilage is worn down which causes the bones in joints to rub each other.

Osteoarthritis is a natural degenerative process and most may experience this as they grow older. However, if you begin to face this condition as early as your 40s, then it’s an alarming sign! Some common places in which Osteoarthritis occurs are hands, knees, hips, neck and lower back.

At what age does Osteoarthritis start?

This natural condition does not have a set timeline and may occur at any point in time. Post-55 is typically when most adults begin to face this condition. Unlike other more obvious health conditions which have a clear-cut starting point, it may take you some time to figure out its symptoms and your health care provider to help you with management.

Causes of Osteoarthritis

Apart from the natural wear and tear of the cartilage due to age, experts are yet to uncover other causes of Osteoarthritis. However, here’s a list of things that play a role in the development of joint osteoarthritis:

• Old age
• female gender
• overweight and obesity
• knee injury
• repetitive use of joints
• bone density
• muscle weakness
• joint laxity

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

Some of the most common Osteoarthritis symptoms slowly develop. They are:

• Pain
• Stiffness
• Tenderness
• Loss of flexibility
• Bone issues
• Swelling
• Inflammation

When To See a Doctor

If you find yourself facing recurring joint pain and stiffness that doesn’t go away, you should go see a doctor. Additionally, if you are facing any of the above-mentioned symptoms of osteoarthritis too, you should get your joints checked by a medical professional. Catching these symptoms early on and treating them can help delay Osteoarthritis for longer.

Prevention of Osteoarthritis: Is it possible to prevent OA?

The degradation of cartilage may occur as you age. But, you can try to delay it for longer if you

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Use support and high-quality shoes if you exercise
• Have a nutritious and wholesome diet
• Get ample sleep and rest
• Always wear a seatbelt or take precautions during sports
• Do low-impact exercises safely
• Go for regular checkups in case of joint issues

Osteoarthritis Management

Since it’s impossible to regrow your cartilage, there’s no final cure for the condition. Healthcare professionals may help patients relieve pain and other symptoms through medication, exercise, supportive devices, various therapies and possibly surgery.

People with Osteoarthritis may have to spend the rest of their lives managing their symptoms. This can be done by following their physician’s guidance and treatment plans. As a general rule, it’s important to stay active as leading a sedentary lifestyle may bring up other chronic issues that can hamper your quality of life. But as daunting as it may seem, it is possible to live well with Osteoarthritis by tweaking your current lifestyle and possibly seeing an occupational therapist to exercise your joints safely!

Conclusion

In short, Osteoarthritis may occur as you age and is a degenerative condition in which worn and torn down cartilage gives way to joints rubbing each other, causing pain, discomfort and trouble in movement. It mainly occurs post-55 however, it can occur earlier as well. While it is irreversible, it can be managed through medication, exercise, a nutritious diet and maintaining a healthy weight. We hope this article gives you an overview of osteoarthritis as a condition. To know more, especially if you feel like you may be facing osteoarthritis, visit a healthcare professional and get their expert recommendations at the earliest!