OSTEOARTHRITIS

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of a degenerative joint disease or arthritis. It usually begins in people over the age of 60, but it may occur at an earlier age.

Osteoarthritis progresses slowly. It may begin with minor trauma or repeated injury to the joint. The joint enlarges and movement becomes limited. The cartilage breaks down first. Cartilage is the joint's cushion that covers the ends of bones allowing free movement. It becomes rough, frays, or wears away, leaving bones to grind against each other. As a result, the joint becomes irritated and inflamed. Sometimes the irritation causes abnormal bone growths, known as spurs, that increase swelling. The disease normally affects the feet, knees, hips, and fingers. Usually only one, or maybe a few, joints are affected at one time.

Excessive or unusual wear of the joints can start the disease. This includes being overweight, poor posture, injury, repetitive strain from work, sports, or recreation, or any combination of these.

The most common symptoms of osteoarthritis are joint pain and stiffness. This is especially true when using the small finger joints and large joints that bear the body's weight. Enlargement of the fingers at the last joint of the fingers may result in a deformity, but seldom leads to a marked disability. Pain and swelling increase with joint usage. These symptoms may be relieved somewhat with rest.

The development of osteoarthritis speeds up when an injury or overuse affects a weight-bearing joint. In young people, injuries and overuse can activate the disease. The weight-bearing joints of the knees, hips, and spine are the joints most likely to be afflicted. However, wrists, elbows, and shoulders may also be affected. Even over the course of a normal lifetime, there is a considerable amount of wearing away of the joint's cartilage.

Treatment focuses on relieving pain and improving joint function. A wide range of drugs and procedures are available. Losing weight and protecting joints from overuse are important. Canes and splints offer protection. Physical therapy provides relief from pain and muscle spasms, and maintains joint range of motion. Surgery is occasionally used to repair or replace the affected joint.

If you are having symptoms of arthritis, see your healthcare provider for a proper evaluation, diagnosis, and a treatment plan. Become involved with the plan, ask questions, become a part of the treatment for it involves you.

To learn more about arthritis, call the Arthritis Foundation at (800) 283-7800.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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