A Guide to Osteoarthritis

The pain of joint damage is often unbearable for most people. One of the most common afflictions for this part of the body is osteoarthritis. More people suffer from this than any other type of arthritis, because it entails the gradual deterioration of an individual's joints. While there is no cure for this condition, there are many things you can do to reduce the damage that is being done. Making healthy lifestyle choices is one of the best ways people suffering from osteoarthritis can continue to live a normal life free from excess pain. It is an unfortunate condition that can come about for various reasons, but treatment options are available.

Osteoarthritis: Causes, symptoms and treatment

• Joint deterioration that occurs naturally over time

• Often affects commonly used joints

• Symptoms include joint pain, stiffness and loss of flexibility/mobility

• Medication and joint relief efforts can minimize the wear and tear

In contrast to other forms of arthritis, osteoarthritis is not caused suddenly. It is a condition that everyone experiences; the only difference is the rate at which it happens. Over time, the cartilage that is located between our joints wears thin. There comes a point in the deterioration process where joint pain can be felt. This is due to the lack of cushion that the cartilage is meant to provide.

The most common symptoms people experience when the cartilage has been worn is acute pain in the region. This pain can be a dull, aching sensation, but it can also be sharp and severe depending on its extent. The trouble areas tend to be the hands, knees and elbows. Although every joint is subject to osteoarthritis, these tend to be used more on a daily basis and thus are subject to quicker deterioration.

In addition to pain, a joint that has less cartilage can be more difficult to move. You may experience a stiffening sensation. In some instances, particularly for joints that have deteriorated to a substantial degree, a complete loss of mobility can occur. The cartilage acts as a lubricant; when it is no longer present, a joint loses the ability to move.

Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis, there are treatment options you can take to reduce the rate of deterioration. Performing exercise on a regular basis can help strengthen your joints. You can also minimize the wear and tear on them by refraining from excess strain. Joint pain can be very discomforting; your doctor will be able to prescribe you with medication to alleviate these symptoms.