Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the affected joint. It most commonly affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine, and tends to develop gradually over many years.
Symptoms
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the disease but typically include:
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Pain in the affected joint(s), especially after activity.
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Stiffness and decreased range of motion in the joint(s).
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Swelling or tenderness in the joint(s).
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A crunching or grinding sensation when the joint(s) are moved.
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Formation of bone spurs around the joint(s).
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A feeling of weakness or instability in the joint(s).
In some cases, osteoarthritis can also cause pain and stiffness in surrounding muscles and tissues. The symptoms of osteoarthritis may develop slowly over time and worsen with age.
Treatment
The treatment of Osteoarthritis aims to relieve pain and improve joint function. It typically involves a combination of non-pharmacological and pharmacological therapies such as exercise, physical therapy, weight loss, use of assistive devices, and medications such as pain relievers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and corticosteroids. In some cases, joint replacement surgery may be recommended.