Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, a joint disorder that causes inflammation and pain. The protective cushion found in the joints between bones eventually wears down. The bones rub against each other, resulting in inflammation and pain. Affecting 20 million people in the United States, osteoarthritis, commonly referred to as arthritis of old age, occurs naturally as joints age.
Time Frame
Prior to the age of 45, the incidence of osteoarthritis occurs more often in males, but after the age of 55 it is more prevalent in women. All races in the United States seem to be affected equally, but a higher rate of osteoarthritis exists in Japan with lower rates in east India, southern China and in South African blacks. The reason is unknown
Features
The joints in the hands, feet, spine and weight-bearing joints such as the hips and knees cause pain and stiffness to the patient. In early stages the water in the cartilage increases while protein decreases, causing the cartilage to flake or to form tiny cracks. In advanced stages cartilage deteriorates completely, leaving bones exposed to one another without the aid of a protective cushion. This causes friction between bones and causes pain and limited mobility. Inflammation and swelling results, often causing the growth of bone spurs called osteophytes. Spurs in turn create more pain when pressure is applied.
Identification
Osteoarthritis has no known cause other than aging and is referred to a primary osteoarthritis. Secondary osteoarthritis refers to arthritis caused by some other medical condition. Obesity or repeated trauma, such as that experienced by soccer players and weightlifters, places added stress on weight-bearing joints and hastens the deterioration of cartilage in the joints. Crystal deposits in the cartilage caused by a buildup of uric acid in gout, or pyrophosphate crystals from pseudogout, cause damage to cartilage and result in premature osteoarthritis. Other conditions such as diabetes and disorders that alter hormone levels hasten the onset of osteoarthritis.
Congenital abnormalities in the joints trigger early degeneration of cartilage, resulting in osteoarthritis. At times osteoarthritis affects several members of the same family, suggesting it may be genetic in nature.
Unlike other forms of arthritis, osteoarthritis affects only joints and does not affect other internal organs. Symptoms include pain after repeatedly using the joint such as lameness after walking or engaging in physical activity, or stiffness and pain after prolonged periods of inactivity. Rising in the morning may cause pain and stiffness that goes away once the patient is up and moving. Riding in a vehicle or sitting at a desk may cause pain and stiffness that lessens upon moving the affected joints.
Effects
Osteoarthritis of the hands often causes the formation of bony enlargements of the joints. Enlargements of the end joint called Herberden's nodes and the middle joint called Bouchard's nodes are common among women in some families, and appear to be genetic in nature. These enlargements cause pain when accidentally bumped, become sensitive and painful when exposed to cold temperatures and result in a weak grip.
Prevention/Solution
Treatment consists of reducing activities that cause pain while engaging in exercise to strengthen muscles and aid in weight reduction. Bicycling and swimming both reduce the impact on irritated joints while working to strengthen muscles. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) treat pain and inflammation due to arthritis. Cortisone injections treat painful joints. In severe cases joint replacement may be necessary. Some studies confirm that glucosamine and chondroitin supplements reduce the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.
Early intervention and adherence to treatment options improves the outlook for osteoarthritis and assists in maintaining mobility of affected joints.
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