Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis (pain and swelling in one or more joints). It is caused by “wear and tear” in the joints and is referred to as “degenerative” joint disease, because it results from damage and breakdown of the joints over time. The cartilage on the ends of the bones cushions joints and provides a smooth surface for the bones to slide past each other with movement. This wears down and can expose the surface of the bone. If cartilage becomes completely worn away, the bones may rub against each other unprotected, causing pain and inflammation in the affected joint. Symptoms of OA are often felt before cartilage becomes completely worn away, and may be present in any joint. It is most common in the hands, hips, and knees. OA affects millions of people worldwide, and up to 82 percent of adults over the age of 65 in South Africa have osteoarthritis.
The following signs and symptoms are found in OA:
There are several risk factors that may contribute to developing OA. These include:
–Joint overuse or injury: This is particularly common in athletes who put significant use and repeated stress on their joints over a long period of time. Even old injuries, that healed years ago, can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis in the affected joint(s).
–Gender: Females are more likely to develop OA. The cause of this is unclear.
–Age: As you get older, your risk of developing OA increases.
-Obesity: Extra body weight increases your risk of developing OA, because the weight causes excess stress on your weight-bearing joints (hips, knees, ankles), and because fat tissue can cause extra inflammation in the joints. The more overweight you are, the higher the risk.
–Genetics: If you have a family member with osteoarthritis, you are more likely to have it as well.
–Bone deformities and metabolic disorders: Some health conditions, such as those causing deformed bones and joints, can increase the risk of OA. Metabolic disorders like diabetes can also contribute to increased risk of OA.
Your healthcare provider will examine your joints for pain, swelling, tenderness, and decreased range of motion. Imaging studies like x-rays and MRIs can detect changes in the joint that indicate OA. There is no blood test that can confirm OA, but blood tests and testing joint fluid may be used to rule out other causes of arthritis such a rheumatoid arthritis and gout.
Osteoarthritis cannot be cured, but both over the counter and prescription medications for pain and inflammation can be used to treat the symptoms. There are several types of joint injections that are also an option to help with lubricating joints and reducing inflammation. Physical and/or occupational therapy can help you find ways to decrease stress on your joints, strengthen surrounding muscles, and find new, easier ways to do daily tasks to improve quality of life. Supportive devices such as canes, crutches, and braces can also help relieve discomfort caused by stress on the joints. Heat and/or cold therapy can help relieve pain and swelling. In severe cases, surgery to replace a badly damaged/worn down joint can be performed, particularly in the knees and hips.
The most common complications of OA are decreased mobility, chronic pain, and depression/reduced quality of life due to these issues. Following treatment plans prescribed by a health care provider can help decrease symptoms and improve quality of life. This may include a combination of the medications and therapies outlined above. Weight loss can significantly decrease stress on joints, as well as low-impact exercise such as swimming or bicycling. This can both help prevent OA and decrease bothersome symptoms.