Osteoarthritis

Understanding Osteoarthritis: A Guide to Joint Health

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It’s a condition where the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time. This leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced flexibility in the affected joints, commonly in the knees, hips, hands, and spine.

What Causes Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis typically develops as we age, but other factors can contribute as well. These include joint injuries, repetitive stress on the joints from physical activity or work, genetics, and obesity, which adds extra pressure on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.

Signs and Symptoms

Osteoarthritis symptoms often develop slowly and worsen over time. The most common signs include:

• Joint Pain: Aching or sharp pain during or after movement.
• Stiffness: Most noticeable when you wake up or after sitting still for a while.
• Loss of Flexibility: Difficulty moving the joint through its full range of motion.
• Grating Sensation: You might feel or hear a grating sound when using the joint.
• Bone Spurs: Extra bits of bone that may form around the affected joint.
  
  

Managing Osteoarthritis

While there’s no cure for osteoarthritis, there are many ways to manage its symptoms and improve your quality of life:

• Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps maintain joint function, reduce stiffness, and strengthen muscles around the joints.
• Weight Management: Losing excess weight can significantly reduce the stress on your joints.
• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter medications, like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can help manage pain.
• Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design an exercise program tailored to your condition.
• Joint Protection: Using supportive devices like braces or canes can help reduce strain on the joints.