Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease affecting the joints. Most commonly it occurs in people aged over 50, however it can affect people in their twenties and thirties. Like Osteoporosis it is a gradual disease, however it differs in that it affects the cartilage rather than the bone. Cartilage is the body’s natural shock absorber. Whilst you cannot see the damage, as it happens under the skin, it is certainly not silent as it is often associated with pain which can affect your daily life.

Whilst Osteoarthritis occurs below the skin, a telltale visual sign is often swelling and is most common on the hands and knees.

As the disease progresses the swelling can cause joints to become deformed, which when coupled with stiffness it can make common daily tasks increasingly difficult. Activities like buttoning a shirt, chopping vegetables, and climbing stairs often become more difficult.

As the cartilage in sufferers depletes bone can start to rub against bone, causing a grating sound or a feeling of the bones crunching against each other. This is often apparent in the knees as a person sits down or kneels. When this type of degeneration occurs, a person might experience a disconcerting snap or crackling sound. The best way to reduce the strain in these cases is to ensure a healthy diet and gentle exercise regime to keep weight in a healthy range with then reduces the load on the joints.

What can I do to reduce my pain/symptoms?

The pain is often worse after sitting for long periods when joints feel difficult to move. Common in the morning, pain can last about thirty minutes. Like pain, stiffness is also associated with Osteoarthritis. Walking and gentle exercise can help loosen the joints so pain and stiffness can reduce as your body warms up.

Swimming and non-weight bearing exercise can be helpful as they keep your joints moving but do not put a load on the joints.

In order to look after your bones as well as your joints it pays to keep your muscles strong as this helps to support your joints as well as keep your bones strong

The weekly recommended amount of exercise/physical activity is at least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (for example, cycling, swimming or fast walking) to build up your muscle strength. It is important to aim to do muscle-strengthening exercises at least two days each week. If you are over 65, you should aim for physical activity for 30 minutes most days. This can be done in shorter bursts of 10-20 minutes throughout the day. Try to be active in as many ways as possible, with exercises to boost your fitness, strength, balance and flexibility.

As always it is important to note exercise should be fun, so do what you enjoy, but try not to overload the joints.

What are the treatment options?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for Osteoarthritis. Medication, non drug methods and assistive devices can help to ease pain. As a last resort, a damaged joint can be surgically replaced with a metal, plastic or ceramic one. 

As with all medical conditions, if you or someone you know may be suffering from Osteoarthritis, it is best to seek the advice of a professional.