Osteoarthritis is a condition that affects the joints and is the most common type of arthritis. Often referred to as ‘wear and tear’ arthritis, it occurs when the surface of your joints get damaged, which prevents the bones of that joint from moving smoothly.
In severe osteoarthritis, the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones can become damaged and thins, causing the bones to rub against each other resulting in pain. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint, but it most commonly affects the large weight bearing joints such as the knee and hip.
Osteoarthritis risk factors
- Age – the onset of osteoarthritis is usually in the late 40’s and is more common in the older population.
- Genetics – There is some evidence to suggest osteoarthritis can have a tendency to run in the family.
- Obesity – Being overweight puts a higher demand on the joints and is certainly a risk factor to predispose you to early onset osteoarthritis.
- Joint injury – A significant injury may increase the likelihood of developing osteoarthritis in that joint later.
- Joint disease – diseases like rheumatoid arthritis may cause damage leading to osteoarthritis.
What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?
The symptoms of osteoarthritis will depend upon the severity of the condition. Some people experience mild discomfort, while others may find it severely limits their daily activities.
Symptoms may include:
- Joint pain
- Stiffness
- Swelling of the joint
- Loss of flexibility
- Crepitus (crunchy grinding sounds from the joint)
How is osteoarthritis diagnosed?
If you are experiencing osteoarthritis symptoms, several methods may be used to diagnose the condition, including:
Medical history and physical examination: You will be asked about your symptoms and family history, before an examination of the affected joints.
Imaging tests: X-rays can reveal joint damage, narrowing of the joint space, and the presence of bones spurs. MRI scans may be used to provide more detailed images of cartilage and soft tissues.
Laboratory tests: Although there is no specific blood test for osteoarthritis, they can rule out other types of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Treatment options for osteoarthritis
There is currently no cure for osteoarthritis, but it is possible to manage and improve the symptoms.
Lifestyle changes
It is important to keep your joints moving to prevent stiffness and strengthening the muscles will help to protect the joint and make it more stable. Simple exercises such as sitting in a chair and straightening the knee will help to strengthen the quadriceps (thigh muscle). Other strength exercises include moving from sitting to standing and climbing the stairs. Swimming and cycling are great forms of exercise to increase the heart rate and burn calories without putting the joints under large amounts of stress.
Losing weight through the combination of a balanced diet and exercise will help reduce the stress to the affected joint. Certain foods have anti-inflammatory properties. Try incorporating omega 3 rich foods (salmon, flaxseeds, chia seeds), leafy greens (spinach, kale), and berries into your diet.
Assistive devices such as braces, shoe inserts, or canes can help relive pressure on joints and improve mobility.
Medication
A number of medications can help with the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Your pharmacist or GP can advise you on over-the-counter pain relievers, topical creams to be applied directly to the joint, or corticosteroid injections for more severe pain.
Physiotherapy
A physiotherapist can design exercises tailored to strengthen the muscles around the joint, improve flexibility, and reduce stiffness. Regular physical activity, such as low-impact aerobic exercise, stretching, and strength training, is essential for managing osteoarthritis.
Helpful tips on how to manage osteoarthritis
Managing osteoarthritis effectively can help reduce pain, improve joint function, and enhance overall quality of life.
- Instead of carrying shopping in carrier bags, use a trolley to transport your shopping.
- Use a heat pack and apply it to a painful joint to help reduce some of the pain and stiffness. *Don’t apply directly to the skin.
- Listen to your body and get plenty of rest when you need it to avoid overworking the joints. Use a walking stick to reduce the stress on the affected joint.
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