OSTEOARTHRITIS

COMMON TERMS

osteoarthritis, ‘wear and tear’ arthritis, degenrative joint disease

TECHNICAL TERMS

arthrosis, osteoarthrosis

WHAT IT IS

The most common form of arthritis, often referred to as “wear and tear” or degenerative joint disease. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time, causing the bones to rub against each other.

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms primarily include joint pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion, often affecting the knees, hips, and hands.

CAUSE

• Aging: Risk increases with age, particularly for those over 45, as tissues naturally age and wear down.
• Joint Injury or Overuse: Previous injuries or repetitive, high-impact stress on joints (e.g., from sports or manual labor) can lead to damage.
• Obesity: Excessive body weight places significant, chronic strain on weight-bearing joints like knees and hips.
• Genetics and Inherited Factors: Family history can play a role, as some individuals may inherit a tendency to develop the condition or have joint deformities.
• Gender: Women are at a higher risk of developing osteoarthritis.
• Metabolic Issues: Conditions such as diabetes or iron overload (hemochromatosis) can contribute to joint damage.

TREATMENT

• Lifestyle and Self-Help: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial to reduce stress on joints. Regular, low-impact exercise—such as walking, cycling, swimming, or water aerobics—strengthens surrounding muscles and increases mobility.
• Physical and Occupational Therapy: Exercises to improve range of motion and strengthen muscles are central, often guided by therapists to ensure safety.
• Medication
  Topical: Creams or gels containing NSAIDs (like Voltaren) or capsaicin can be applied to the skin for pain.
  Oral: Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is often used for mild pain. NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) are used for pain and inflammation.
  Injections: Corticosteroid injections can provide temporary relief from inflammation. Hyaluronic acid injections may be used to lubricate joints, particularly in the knee.
• Supportive Devices: Braces, shoe inserts (orthotics), canes, or walkers can stabilize joints and reduce pressure.
• Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying ice packs reduces swelling, while heat (hot baths, heating pads) relieves stiffness.
• Surgery: When conservative treatments fail to manage severe pain, joint replacement (arthroplasty) or resurfacing may be considered.