Osteoarthritis commonly known as wear and tear arthritis, is the most common type of arthritis. It is associated with breakdown of cartilage in joints and can occur in almost all joints of the body. Osteoarthritis affects mainly older people, caused by chronic degeneration of the cartilage and synovial membrane of the joint, leading to pain and stiffness.
Symptoms:
Joint will be stiff and painful, and may be swollen. Pain may be worse after exercise. It may get harder to more the joint. The quality of life can be greatly reduced as the pain can be inhibiting and it may become difficult for people to live their daily lives as usual.
Causes of Osteoarthritis:
- Mechanical stress:especially in the joints, the main reason for development of Osteoarthritis is mechanical stress.
- Obesity: Is strongly linked to this condition, as it increases the weight that the joints are required to support particularly the knees and hips of obese people are affected.
- Heredity factors: This factor is considered to predispose people to Osteoarthritis.
Diagnosis:
Clinical examination of the affected joint is the first step, which usually appear swollen and the patient reports significant pain in the area. Confirmation of the diagnosis can be made with (x-ray) imaging. Characteristic changes of the joints particularly involving the cartilage and bone in the area are usually evident
Treatment:
Treatment usually begins with management of the risk of Osteoarthritis and helping to relief pressure on the joint. Losing weight is the one of the most important first step. Some physical theory such as Hot and Cold packs, can offer a benefit to help reduce the pain or stiffness.
Medical theory:
Simple analgesics
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may provide suitable options, but the potential risks should be managed effectively.
Prevention:
- Maintaining proper body weight.
- Proper nutrition and dietary
- Moderate but regular activity
- No excessive strain on the joints
- Avoiding unnecessary lifting of weight
- Removal of chronic infection from the body