AKA degenerative arthritis
Group of mechanical abnormalities involving degradation of joints and their cartilages
Commonly affects the hands, feet, spine and large weight bearing joints (knees and hips)
Unknown cause of OA (Primary osteoarthritis)
Known cause of OA (Secondary osteoarthritis)
Causes/Risk factors
Primary OA mainly related to aging
Water content of cartilage increases in older people and the protein makeup of cartilage degenerates
Hence cartilage begins to degenerate
Has a hereditary basis as multiple members of one family may develop OA
Wear and tear of cartilages, especially in athletes and laborers
Previous injuries or overuse
Basketball and football players are more likely to develop OA later
Inactivity
Weakens the muscles that support the joints and decreases joint flexibility – Become stiff, dysfunctional and prone to injuries - OA
Obesity
Joints are more strained due to excess weight
Especially evident in knees and hips
Signs and symptoms
Pain in joint mobility
Due to stiffness, bone ends rubbing together,
Tenderness
Joints feel tender when light pressure is applied
Stiffness
Most noticeable when you wake up in the morning/after a period of inactivity
Loss of flexibility
May not be able to move your joint through its full range of motion.
Cracking
Joints make crunching, creaking sounds
See a doctor when swelling or stiffness lasts more than 2 weeks
Treatment
Weight control
Proper exercise
Pain medication
Surgery
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