Exploring Osteoarthritis: Understanding the Degenerative Joint Disease

 

Osteoarthritis, often referred to as degenerative joint disease, stands as the most prevalent form of arthritis, commonly affecting older individuals. This condition manifests as the gradual deterioration of the cartilage, the protective tissue covering the ends of bones within joints. As the cartilage wears down, individuals may experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, stiffness, and restricted movement in the affected joints, most commonly in the hips, knees, hands, and spine. While less frequent, osteoarthritis may also impact joints in the shoulders, wrists, and feet.

Causes and Risk Factors

The root cause of osteoarthritis lies in the gradual degradation of cartilage within the affected joints. This deterioration can stem from various factors, including:

• Excess weight putting strain on the joints

• Prolonged periods of excessive strain or repetitive stress on the joints

• Previous joint injuries or fractures

• Genetic predisposition or congenital abnormalities of the joints

• Joint diseases or deformities

Diagnosis

Diagnosing osteoarthritis typically involves a comprehensive assessment that includes a medical history review, physical examination, and imaging studies, such as X-rays of the affected joint. During the physical examination, healthcare providers evaluate the joint for signs of swelling, tenderness, and limited range of motion. X-rays may reveal a loss of joint space and the formation of bone spurs, indicative of osteoarthritic changes.

Treatment Options

While there is currently no cure for osteoarthritis, various treatment modalities and lifestyle modifications can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These treatment approaches include:

• Medications: Depending on the severity of symptoms, healthcare providers may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs, steroid injections, or artificial joint fluid injections to alleviate pain and inflammation.

• Lifestyle Modifications: Implementing lifestyle changes such as engaging in moderate exercise, applying heat or cold treatments, maintaining a healthy diet, ensuring adequate rest, and managing weight can help reduce symptoms and improve joint function.

• Physical Therapy: Working with a physical therapist can be beneficial in developing an exercise regimen focused on enhancing joint flexibility and muscle strength.

• Assistive Devices: Using assistive devices such as splints or braces can provide support to weakened joints and help protect them from further damage.

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Surgery: In cases where nonsurgical treatments fail to provide relief, joint replacement surgery may be considered, particularly if severe pain significantly impairs daily activities.

About the Author:

Dr. Sai Phani Chandra is a renowned Orthopaedic surgeon based in Secunderabad, known for his exceptional expertise in joint replacement, arthroscopy, and complex trauma surgery. With over 14 years of experience, he has established himself as one of the best in his field. Dr. Sai Phani Chandra Balijepalli specialises in minimally invasive robotic hip and knee replacement in Secunderabad.