Osteoarthritis develops as the cartilage in your joints wears down, leading to inflammation and, in advanced cases, bone to bone contact. That results in pain, which is generally more common later in the day and after repetitive high-impact activities. You may experience swelling, tenderness, stiffness, and creaking of the joints. In severe cases, you may have pain when at rest or with minor movements.
Osteoarthritis typically affects the hands, knees, hips and spine, although any joint is a potential target. Unfortunately, there is no cure and pain gradually gets worse with time. But treatment can bring relief and allow you to remain actively involved in fitness and recreation.
Risk Factors and Diagnosis
Age and obesity are the most common risk factors for osteoarthritis. Excess weight places an inordinate amount of pressure on the knee. The cartilage that normally cushions the knee joint begins to wear down, leading to inflammation and friction between bones. In extreme cases, your doctor may recommend knee replacement surgery.
Your doctor will examine the affected joints to determine if arthritis is the cause. He may also recommend diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, joint fluid analysis and arthroscopy, which involves the surgical insertion of a small camera into the joint area. Once a diagnosis is made, you can explore treatment options. There is no treatment to stop cartilage degeneration or to repair existing damage. The goal is to reduce pain and inflammation and to improve or maintain joint function.
Treatment for Mild Osteoarthritis
It pays to be well informed and to be proactive in your treatment plan. Here are a few tips to help you better manage the symptoms of osteoarthritis.
- Lose Weight – Weight loss reduces pressure on the knee and hip joints, and on the lower back. Even a slight reduction in weight should bring relief.
- Exercise – Strengthening the muscles that support affected joints helps to stabilize the area. Walking, swimming and biking build endurance and increase mobility. Avoid exercising swollen or injured joints and pay attention to new pain. It’s your body’s way of saying slow down.
- Rest – If you’re having pain, rest the joint for 12 to 24 hours. That’s not an excuse to plant yourself in front of the television for the day. There are plenty of activities that won’t stress the affected joint.
- Heat and Cold – A heating pad or hot water bottle can relieve pain and stiffness. Warm heat should be applied for about 20 minutes several times a day. Ice packs will help cool the pain, but avoid them if you have poor circulation.
- Physical Therapy – Your doctor may recommend a physical therapist who can develop an exercise program to strengthen the muscles around the joint and to increase your range of motion.
- Pain Creams and Gels – Over-the-counter creams and gels may provide temporary relief by numbing the affected area or by reducing minor inflammation. Always read the label before purchasing over-the-counter products.
If your condition does not improve, check with your doctor about over-the-counter medications (such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil), and aspirin) and prescription medications.
Sources:
WebMD, Osteoarthritis Guide
Arthritis Foundation, Osteoarthritis
Cleveland Clinic, Osteoarthritis: What You Need to Know
George Conway - George Conway is a freelance writer with twenty years of experience in healthcare and non-profit training, management and administration. ...
Join the Conversation