*हिंदी में पढ़ें: ऑस्टियोआर्थराइटिस (Osteoarthritis): कारण, लक्षण और उपचार के विकल्प
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. It develops when the cartilage lining of your joints gets damaged or worn down, and your bones rub together when you move. India has one of the highest OA rates in the world, with over 62 million people affected by the condition.
In this blog, we are going to discuss what osteoarthritis is, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common kinds of arthritis (a chronic condition that affects your joints). It is a degenerative joint disease that develops when the cartilage between your bones gets damaged.
Typically, the ends of your bones are protected by a layer of tough but smooth cartilage. The cartilage acts as a two-in-one shock absorber and lubricant, helping your bones move smoothly without rubbing against each other.
However, if you have OA, the cartilage in your joints tends to become damaged over time. When the cartilage degenerates, your bones have no safety layer protecting them, and they rub against each other whenever you move.
This can lead to significant discomfort, reduced range of movement, stiffness, pain, and inflammation.
OA can develop in multiple joints, but most commonly affects:
- Hands
- Knees
- Neck (cervical spine)
- Hips
- Lower back (lumbar spine)
Osteoarthritis Types
A specialist may classify your condition as one of the two following types:
- Primary Osteoarthritis: This is the most common among people who have OA. This is usually caused by the natural wear and tear of cartilage that occurs throughout your life.
- Secondary Osteoarthritis: This is when an injury or trauma directly affects your cartilage. Additionally, other types of arthritis can also damage your cartilage enough to cause OA.
Osteoarthritis Causes
The primary cause of osteoarthritis is the natural wear and tear of the cartilage. However, certain factors that directly damage your joints can also lead to OA. These factors include:
- Falls
- Sports injuries
- Car accidents
Additionally, other forms of arthritis can also lead to OA:
- Gout
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
Osteoarthritis Symptoms
Some common signs & symptoms of osteoarthritis include:
- Joint stiffness
- Joint pain (especially when moving the joint)
- Reduced range of motion & flexibility
- Swelling near joint
- Instability in joint (in advanced stages)
- Joint deformity (misshapen or bent)
Osteoarthritis Risk Factors
Here are some factors that place you at a higher risk of developing osteoarthritis:
- Overweight or obesity
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Autoimmune disease affecting your joints
Osteoarthritis Treatment
There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but there are certain measures that help alleviate symptoms to a great extent. In some cases, a single management technique might be enough to relieve joint pain, whereas in others, a combination of multiple techniques might be required. Some common treatment options include:
- Over-the-counter medication (oral pills or topical gels/ointments) – for pain relief and reducing inflammation.
- Physiotherapy – regular exercise & movement to reduce joint stiffness & build muscle strength.
- Heat & cold therapy – to reduce pain & stiffness.
- Joint injections – Your doctor might use joint injections for quick and short-term anti-inflammatory relief.
- Surgery – While most people with osteoarthritis are able to lead comfortable lives with the help of management techniques, surgery may be the only option in some severe cases. When no other method of treatment proves effective, doctors typically recommend a joint replacement surgery.
*Note: If OA is detected early and managed with non-invasive treatment options, surgery might not be necessary.
When to Visit a Doctor?
You must visit a specialist as soon as you notice any of the above-listed symptoms. Even minor joint pain can be a sign of something more serious – do not delay medical help if the pain persists for more than a few days.
Schedule an appointment at Sohana Hospital, where you can consult the osteoarthritis specialist. Our experts aim to provide every patient with the highest quality of orthopaedic care. Equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic facilities and modern treatment options, the institution provides the best arthritis treatment in Chandigarh at the most affordable prices – because good health shouldn’t be a far-fetched dream. Visit and get relief from your arthritis symptoms today!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. At What Age Does Osteoarthritis Start?
Osteoarthritis typically develops after the age of 55. However, it is important to note that OA might develop way before the symptoms become apparent. This is why regular physical examinations are highly recommended for people over the age of 55.
2. Can I live normally if I have osteoarthritis?
With the right management strategies and support in place, you can live a normal, comfortable life. The condition does not always get worse with time. Early detection and management are crucial to leading a pain-free life.
3. Is walking a good activity for osteoarthritis?
Yes, walking is a great physical activity if you have OA. You should go on regular walks to reduce joint stiffness, inflammation, and pain. Walking can also help increase the range of movement and joint flexibility when paired with other treatment options.