Osteoarthritis is usually described as degenerative arthritis. It is the most frequent joint condition that affects millions of people all over the globe. It's caused by the cartilage that covers the bones' edges being degraded over time as the years progress. Degeneration that is gradual, yet easy to fix, results in arthritis stiffness, swelling, and discomfort.
While osteoarthritis can be observed in all joints, it is mainly in the hips, knees, hands, and the spinal column. However, joints can't be completely fixed. The early detection of osteoarthritis and immediate medical care could have a major impact on the way you battle this disease.
Understanding Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is often used as a result of "wear and tear" arthritis because the cartilage that surrounds joints wears off over the years. Cartilage is a strong but flexible tissue that allows bones to glide easily against each other. If it becomes damaged, it will begin to rub against each other and cause pain, swelling and sometimes, the development of tiny bones which grow on the edges of the joint.
In time, it can be seen that the surrounding ligaments, tissue, and the lining of joints may also become affected, leading to more pain and limiting the range of motion. This slow process causes degenerative arthritis to become an ongoing problem that can get worse over the course of many years.
Osteoarthritis Symptoms
The recognition of osteoarthritis symptoms early is essential to treat the problem and prevent severe injury to joints. The symptoms could be different for individuals. However, the most common symptoms are
1. Joint Pain
The most obvious sign of joint pain is particularly after extended activity. The pain could start with mild pain, but it can grow much more intense as the disease progresses. For instance, you may feel knee pain when you walk up the stairs or the pain of holding objects.
2. Stiffness
Joint stiffness, particularly on the onset or following sitting for long durations, is thought to be an indication of osteoarthritis. The stiffness is usually relieved with slow movements or gentle exercises, but can return following long periods of inactivity.
3. Tenderness
Osteoarthritis sufferers typically experience tenderness in joints when the joint is exposed to pressure. The tenderness is caused by inflammation and irritation of joint tissues.
4. Loss of Flexibility
As the condition progresses and the joint becomes more difficult to move your joint. It is possible to feel a reduced movement range within the joint, which makes routine tasks like bent knees or gripping small objects more difficult to complete.
5. Grating or Cracking Feeling
A majority of people report that they feel a grating, cracking, or clicking when joints move. It is due to joints that have roughened and come into contact with one another, a common symptom of degenerative arthritis.
6. Bone Spurs
Bone spurs are small, hard growths that grow in the opposite direction of the joint. They can cause joints to appear deformed or swollen, and can press on nerves around the joint, which can cause pain.
7. Swelling
The swelling of soft tissues surrounding the joint may be a result of inflammation. It could occur intermittently but it may be painful and restrict movement.
What Causes Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is caused due to the interaction of some elements. It's not only about age, but also the way you live, the genes, or even previous traumas, can all be the cause. Let's look at what causes the wear and tear of joints.
1. Aging
The body gradually loses its capacity to repair and regenerate cartilage as we age. The wear and tear that happens naturally over time is among the most common causes of degenerative arthritis.
2. Gender
Research has shown that women are at greater risk for developing osteoarthritis when compared to men, particularly people over 50. Changes in hormones during menopause may be the reason for this.
3. Obesity
Being overweight places extra stress on joints, like the knees, hips and also the spinal column. In addition, the body's fat produces chemical compounds that may cause joint inflammation. The management of weight can greatly reduce the chance of a worsening of osteoarthritis-related symptoms.
4. Joint Injuries
Old sports, falls or accidents can permanently harm joint cartilage. Even injuries that appear small at the beginning can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis later on.
5. Repetitive Stress
Activities like lifting objects, kneeling or squatting which include repetitive motion, can cause cartilage to wear out, which turns into degenerative arthritis after some time.
6. Genetics
Family history may be the reason if your parents or grandparents suffered osteoarthritis; in such a case, there is a higher chance for you to get it of inheriting cartilage or bone weak points.
7. Bone Deformities
Certain people suffer from joint issues or damaged cartilage, putting them at a higher risk of the wear and tear of joints.
8. Metabolic Diseases
Diabetes or hemochromatosis, too much iron levels within the human body, can cause joint pain and increase the chance of developing osteoarthritis.
Managing Osteoarthritis for a Better Life
While a permanent cure for degenerative arthritis is not there, we have many effective ways to relieve joint pain and protect them. Making lifestyle changes, being active by exercising daily and eating a healthy and balanced diet and follow the correct medical procedures can be a huge help in enhancing flexibility and reducing discomfort.
Physical therapy and maintaining an appropriate weight can be useful, as they take more pressure off the joints. When the condition is more advanced, surgeries, for instance, joint replacement, or even arthroscopy, which are performed by the best orthopedic can dramatically increase mobility and improve the general quality of life.
Living Positively with Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis can be a long-term condition, but it shouldn't become the focus of daily life. With expert advice, timely medical intervention, and positive outlooks from healthcare providers, those living with degenerative arthritis can remain active and lead full lives. Pay attention to any signals your body sends your way and stick with an effective treatment routine, don't delay seeking help from healthcare professionals when required
The path to osteoarthritis should not be one of restriction, but one of adjustment and treatment. Every little change that you make, from living an active lifestyle to speaking with the most experienced orthopedic surgeon in Gurgaon, Dr. Yugal Karkhur, who has more than 14 years of expertise, could create a lasting change in how the joints perform every day.