Osteoarthritis: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options

Living with the discomfort and limitations of osteoarthritis can often feel like a relentless challenge. If you are searching for effective osteoarthritis pain relief, understanding the underlying causes, recognisable symptoms, and available treatment options is crucial. 

This blog will guide you through osteoarthritis, offering clear and practical advice to help manage your condition. We will check out how this common form of arthritis develops, identify the signs to watch for, and discuss both traditional and innovative treatment strategies. 

Whether for yourself or a loved one, gaining knowledge on this topic can be the first step towards regaining a more comfortable and active lifestyle.

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis, often referred to simply as OA, is the most common form of arthritis affecting millions around the globe. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time. Although osteoarthritis can damage any joint, the disorder most commonly affects joints in your hands, knees, hips, and spine. 

You might feel pain, stiffness, and occasional swelling. This may make it harder to perform everyday tasks, but understanding OA is a pivotal step towards managing its impact on your life.

What are the Types of Osteoarthritis?

There are several types of osteoarthritis, each affecting different joints and having its own set of challenges.

• Primary Osteoarthritis: This type is also known as 'wear and tear' arthritis. It typically occurs with ageing and the gradual degradation of joint cartilage.
• Secondary Osteoarthritis: This form develops as a result of another disease or condition, such as obesity, repeated trauma or surgery to the joint structures, or congenital abnormalities affecting the joints.

How Common is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a prevalent health concern in India, affecting millions of individuals across various age groups. It is especially common among the elderly population but can also impact younger adults, particularly those involved in physically demanding jobs or those who have experienced joint injuries. 

Estimates suggest that nearly 15%-20% of the Indian population is affected by osteoarthritis, with a higher incidence among women and older adults. Despite its prevalence, awareness and comprehensive management of osteoarthritis are still developing.

What are Osteoarthritis Symptoms?

Recognising the signs of osteoarthritis early can help you manage the condition more effectively. The osteoarthritis symptoms typically develop gradually and worsen over time. Here are some key indicators to look out for:

• Pain: Affected joints may hurt during or after movement.
• Stiffness: Joint stiffness might be most noticeable upon waking up or after a period of inactivity.
• Tenderness: Your joint might feel tender when you apply light pressure to or near it.
• Loss of Flexibility: You may not be able to move your joint through its full range of motion.
• Grating Sensation: You might feel a grating sensation when you use the joint, and you might hear popping or crackling.
• Swelling: This can be caused by soft tissue inflammation around the joint.

What Causes Osteoarthritis?

The exact osteoarthritis causes are not fully understood, but several factors contribute to joint wear and tear. These include:

• Cartilage Breakdown: Cartilage cushions the ends of the bones and allows nearly frictionless joint motion, but over time, the cartilage can degrade and cease to protect the bones effectively.
• Joint Misalignment or Overuse: Repetitive use or injuries can contribute to osteoarthritis causes.

What are the Risk Factors of Osteoarthritis?

Several factors can increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis. Knowing these can help you take preventive measures:

• Age: The risk increases with age.
• Sex: Women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis, especially after menopause.
• Obesity: Extra body weight puts more stress on weight-bearing joints, such as hips and knees.
• Joint Injuries: Injuries, such as those that occur when playing sports or from an accident, can increase the risk of osteoarthritis.
• Genetics: Some people inherit a tendency to develop osteoarthritis.

How is Osteoarthritis Diagnosed?

Diagnosing osteoarthritis involves a combination of methods:

• Clinical Examination: Your doctor will check for tenderness, swelling, redness, and flexibility of the joints.
• Patient History: Discuss symptoms and any potential injury history that might affect the joint with your doctor.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays or MRI scans can reveal cartilage loss, bone damage, and other changes in joint spacing.
• Lab Tests: While there is no blood test for osteoarthritis, certain tests can help rule out other causes of joint pain, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

What Tests are Done to Diagnose Osteoarthritis?

If you are experiencing joint pain or stiffness, your doctor may recommend several tests to confirm osteoarthritis. These tests help rule out other conditions and determine the severity of joint damage.

• Physical Examination: Your doctor will assess your affected joints for swelling, tenderness, range of motion, and any signs of deformity.
• X-rays: These can show cartilage loss, bone spurs, and narrowing of the joint space, which are common indicators of osteoarthritis.
• MRI Scans: If needed, an MRI can provide more detailed images of the cartilage, ligaments, and surrounding soft tissues.
• Joint Fluid Analysis: A small sample of joint fluid may be taken to check for infection or other types of arthritis, such as gout.
• Blood Tests: While there is no blood test for osteoarthritis, testing may be done to rule out other inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

How is Osteoarthritis Treated?

While osteoarthritis cannot be completely cured, different osteoarthritis treatment options can help manage pain, improve joint function, and slow disease progression. Your treatment plan may include:

• Medications: Pain relievers like paracetamol, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), and topical creams may help reduce discomfort.
• Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises improve mobility and support the affected joints.
• Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can reduce stress on the joints.
• Assistive Devices: Braces, canes, or orthotic shoe inserts can help support the joints and relieve pressure.
• Surgical Options: In severe cases, joint replacement surgery (such as knee or hip replacement) may be recommended for long-term osteoarthritis treatment.

How Can We Prevent Osteoarthritis?

While some factors like ageing and genetics cannot be changed, several strategies can help reduce your risk of developing osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis prevention focuses on protecting your joints and maintaining overall joint health.

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts additional strain on weight-bearing joints, increasing wear and tear.
• Stay Active: Engaging in regular low-impact activities, such as swimming or walking, can help keep joints flexible.
• Practice Good Posture: Avoid excessive stress on your joints by maintaining proper posture while sitting, standing, and lifting.
• Protect Your Joints: Use proper techniques when exercising or lifting heavy objects to prevent joint injuries.
• Follow a Balanced Diet: Nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and calcium can help maintain strong bones and cartilage, contributing to osteoarthritis prevention.

What Can We Expect If I Have Osteoarthritis?

If you have osteoarthritis, you may wonder how it will affect your daily life. While the condition can cause discomfort, the right management strategies can help you stay active and independent.

• Pain and Stiffness: Symptoms may vary in intensity but can be managed with lifestyle changes, medications, and therapies.
• Mobility Challenges: Some activities may become harder, but using aids like braces or engaging in osteoarthritis knee exercises can improve strength and flexibility.
• Flare-Ups: Symptoms can worsen temporarily due to factors like weather changes, overuse, or stress. Learning to recognise triggers can help prevent flare-ups.
• Long-Term Outlook: Osteoarthritis progresses gradually, but early intervention and proper management can slow its progression and maintain a good quality of life.

What Can We Do To Make Living With Osteoarthritis Easier?

Osteoarthritis can affect mobility and daily activities, but with the right approach, you can manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. Simple lifestyle adjustments can make a big difference.

• Stay Active: Gentle movements like walking, swimming, and yoga help maintain flexibility and joint health.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight increases stress on joints, especially in the knees and hips.
• Use Assistive Devices: Braces, canes, and orthotic shoes can provide extra joint support.
• Try Heat and Cold Therapy: Warm compresses ease stiffness, while ice packs reduce swelling.
• Incorporate Strengthening Exercises: Osteoarthritis knee exercises help stabilise the knee and improve movement.
• Modify Your Daily Routine: Avoid repetitive joint strain by using ergonomic furniture and joint-friendly tools.

When To See A Doctor?

Early medical intervention can help slow the progression of osteoarthritis and improve symptom management. Consult a doctor if you experience:

• Persistent Joint Pain: Pain that does not improve with rest or over-the-counter medication.
• Swelling or Stiffness: If swelling and reduced mobility persist, a doctor can help identify the best treatment.
• Difficulty Walking or Performing Daily Activities: Limited joint movement can indicate worsening osteoarthritis.
• Lack of Osteoarthritis Pain Relief: If home remedies and lifestyle changes no longer help, medical treatment may be necessary.

At What Age Does Osteoarthritis Usually Start?

Osteoarthritis typically develops after the age of 50, as joint wear and tear accumulate over time. However, it can start earlier, especially in individuals with joint injuries, obesity, or a family history of arthritis. Some people may notice symptoms in their 40s or even 30s, particularly if they engage in repetitive or high-impact activities.

Conclusion

Osteoarthritis can impact your daily life, but with the right knowledge and management strategies, you can maintain mobility and reduce discomfort. From lifestyle adjustments to medical treatments, there are many ways to achieve osteoarthritis pain relief and improve your joint health. Early diagnosis and proper care can make a significant difference in managing symptoms effectively.

If you are experiencing osteoarthritis symptoms or have concerns about your joint health, Metropolis Healthcare offers comprehensive diagnostic services to help you get the answers you need. With convenient at-home sample collection and modern laboratories, Metropolis Healthcare is your trusted partner in managing osteoarthritis and prioritising your well-being.