Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that mainly affects the cartilage in joints. (Cartilage is the firm, rubbery tissue that cushions bones at joints, and when it wears down, the bones can rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling). The loss of articular cartilage causes increase pain with minimal or no inflammation.
It is a common condition, especially among older adults. It can affect any joint in the body, but it most commonly affects the weight bearing joints (knees, hips, and ankles).
Causes of OA:
The exact cause of osteoarthritis is not known, but risk factors include age, genetics, obesity, joint injury or overuse, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes may cause osteoarthritis.
Risk factors include:
- Age: Osteoarthritis is more common in older adults, as the cartilage in the joints naturally wears down over time.
- Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis may increase a person’s risk of developing the condition.
- Obesity: Being overweight puts extra stress on the joints, which can lead to the breakdown of cartilage.
- Joint injuries: Previous injuries to a joint, such as a fracture or ligament tear, can increase the risk of osteoarthritis in that joint.
- Repetitive stress: Activities that involve repetitive motions, such as sports or certain occupations, can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
- Hormonal changes: Changes in hormones, such as those that occur during menopause, may increase the risk of osteoarthritis.
- Other medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes or gout, may increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
SYMTOMS OF OA:
- Symptoms of OA vary from person to person, but the most common symptoms of osteoarthritis include:
- Pain: Osteoarthritis can cause pain in the affected joint(s) during movement or even while at rest. The pain may be described as a dull ache or sharp stabbing pain.
- Stiffness: People with osteoarthritis often experience stiffness in the affected joint(s), especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
- Swelling: Osteoarthritis can cause swelling and tenderness in the affected joint(s).
- Decreased ROM: Over time, osteoarthritis can cause a decrease in the range of motion of the affected joint(s), making it difficult to move the joint(s) freely.
- Cracking or popping sounds: People with osteoarthritis may hear cracking or popping sounds when they move the affected joint(s).
- Bone spurs: In some cases, osteoarthritis can cause the growth of bone spurs around the affected joint(s), which can further limit joint movement and cause pain.
Diagnostic Test :
Here are some diagnostic tests of osteoarthritis given below:
Normal lab test includes: CBC, ESR anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) and Rheumatoid factor
X-ray is the most accurate test in diagnosing the osteoarthritis. This test shows the following damaging factors in the affected joint.
- Joint space narrowing.
- Osteophytes.
- Dense subchondral bone.
- Bone cysts.
Medical Treatment :
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Prescription medications such as COX-2 inhibitors and opioids may also be prescribed by a doctor.
- Intraarticular steroids if other medical therapy does not control pain.
- Capsaicin cream.
- Duloxetine effectively treats knee pain.
- Joint replacement if function is compromised
Physical Therapy Treatment:
Osteoarthritis is a common form of arthritis that affects the joints, causing pain and stiffness. Physical therapy can be an effective treatment option for osteoarthritis. A physical therapist can help you develop an exercise program that is tailored to your specific needs and abilities.
Here are some common physical therapy treatments for osteoarthritis:
- Range of Motion Exercises: These exercises help improve joint mobility, which is often reduced in osteoarthritis. They involve moving the joint through its full range of motion, either actively or passively.
- Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening exercises help improve muscle strength around the joint, which can reduce stress on the joint and improve joint stability.
- Low-Impact Aerobic Exercise: Low-impact exercises such as walking, cycling, or swimming can help improve cardiovascular health, reduce pain and stiffness, and improve joint mobility
- Manual Therapy: Manual therapy techniques such as joint mobilization and soft tissue mobilization can help reduce pain and improve joint mobility.
- Assistive Devices: Your physical therapist may recommend assistive devices such as a cane or knee brace to help reduce stress on the affected joint and improve mobility.
Treatment for osteoarthritis typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, such as exercise and weight loss, and medication to manage pain and inflammation. In severe cases, joint replacement surgery may be necessary.