Osteoarthritis: Recognition and Treatment

Osteoarthritis causes inflammation of one or more joints in the body. It is the most common form of arthritis, affecting more than 27 million people over the age of 25 in the United States.

Osteoarthritis is characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the joints. It can affect any joint in the body, but most often appears in the hands, hips, knees, neck, and lower back. The degeneration of cartilage exposes bones of the joints, resulting in bone-to-bone contact and extreme pain.

The cause of osteoarthritis is unknown. It's believed that the degeneration of cartilage is part of the natural process of aging. Certain factors, such as a family history of osteoarthritis, gender, age, obesity, joint injuries, or the overuse of joints recreationally or at work could all increase your risk of osteoarthritis.

The disease often goes unnoticed until it begins to cause painful symptoms. Osteoarthritis can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited range of motion. Osteoarthritis symptoms begin to appear when cartilage covering synovial joints starts to break down.

Small, bony projections called bone spurs may occur in response to inflammation in a joint. They are most common where bones meet in joints, and be felt as hard lumps around joints that are affected by osteoarthritis. They can rub against nearby nerves and bones, causing additional pain.

It's important to talk to your general practitioner about your symptoms. Osteoarthritis treatments are based on the severity of the condition and may include over-the-counter medication or lifestyle changes. Exercise can help maintain healthy joints, relieve stiffness, reduce pain, and increase muscle and bone strength. Low-impact exercises, such as stretching or strength-training are thought to relieve symptoms.

A low-fat diet that's high in fiber is recommended to encourage weight loss and reduce stress on the joints. Cold and heat treatments are also encouraged to relieve symptoms of osteoarthritis. Ice helps to restrict blood vessels, which reduces fluid and decreases swelling in the area. While heat opens the blood vessels and increases circulation, bringing nutrients and proteins which are essential to repairing damaged tissue.