Osteoarthritis(Degenerative Joint Disease; Arthritis, Osteo-)
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Editorial Staff and Contributors DefinitionCartilage is smooth tissue that covers the bone in a joint. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the wearing down of cartilage over time. OA can cause pain and limit movement.
Causes TOPCartilage acts as a cushion for the bones. It also helps bones move smoothly over each other. High impact, stress, and pressure on the joint can wear down the cartilage. The damage worsens over time. For some, the cartilage may completely wear away. This leaves the bone surfaces bare which causes pain and trouble moving. Wear and tear of the joint is a part of aging. Injuries to the joint, weak muscles, or other health problems can speed up and worsen the damage. Risk Factors TOPOA is more common in older adults. Other factors that may increase your chance of OA include:
Symptoms TOPOA is most common in larger joints that support weight such as the spine, hips, and knees. It is also common in active joints like the hand and feet. Common symptoms include:
Diagnosis TOPYou will be asked about your symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. The doctor can often diagnose OA based on your symptoms. Other tests are not always needed. The doctor may do more tests if your symptoms are not typical. They can help to rule out other issues like a new injury. Test options may include: Treatment TOPOA cannot be cured. Treatment is focused on:
Treatment may change over time. Options may include: Weight LossExtra weight can increase pressure on the joints. This may speed up wear and tear. The closer you are to your ideal weight, the better it will be. If you are overweight, losing any weight can lessen the stress on your joints. A dietitian can help you make meal plans. Exercise and TherapyMuscles affect how the joints line up and how they move. It can also affect how much stress is placed on your joints. Strong muscles can decrease the wear and tear with each movement. They can help to slow the progress of OA. Strong muscles related to the joint may also decrease OA pain and make movement easier. Low impact may be a good way to start. For example, swimming and water aerobics improve muscle health with less impact on the joints. Ask a doctor or an exercise specialist for help to create a program that works for you. OA can make everyday tasks difficult. Physical or occupational therapy can provide new steps or devices to help you such as:
Other therapy options include:
Medications TOPMedicines may help to manage pain or swelling. Options include:
Heat and Ice TOPHeat may help loosen stiff joints and help you move easier. Heat may be given through hot water bottles, warm soaks, paraffin, or heating pads. Ice may help to decrease swelling and pain. It may be most useful after activity. Alternative Treatments TOPThese therapies may be able to give you some relief. They work best when used in combo with treatments above. Let your doctor know about any treatment you may try to make sure all your efforts work together. Options that have shown some promise with OA include:
Surgery TOPOA can sometimes cause severe limits. If it is making daily life hard, your doctor may recommend a surgery. Surgery may be done to:
Prevention TOPTo reduce your chance of OA:
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Last reviewed May 2018 by Warren A. Bodine, DO, CAQSM Last Updated: 7/12/2018 | |
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