Osteoarthritis : Causes, Risk factors, Symptoms, Diagnosis, treatment, Complications Prevention and control

_________________________

• Written : Aminu Salisu M.D
• Contributed : Hafsat Isah gaya
• Medically Reviewed : Idris sani Ph.d
• Editor : Victoria Solomon (B.A English language)
• Published : Rabiu Rabiu (Dr. Cracker)

_________________________

• What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that affects the joints. It is caused by the breakdown of cartilage, the tissue that cushions and protects the joints. This breakdown can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected joints.

Cartilage is a smooth, slippery tissue that covers the ends of bones. It helps the bones glide against each other smoothly and without friction. When cartilage breaks down, the bones can rub against each other, causing pain and inflammation.

Osteoarthritis can develop in any joint in the body, but it is most common in the knees, hips, hands, and spine. It can affect people of all ages, but it is more common in older adults.

• Types of osteoarthritis

There are two main types of osteoarthritis:

1. Primary osteoarthritis: This type of osteoarthritis develops over time and is not caused by a specific injury. It is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, aging, and wear and tear on the joints.
2. Secondary osteoarthritis: This type of osteoarthritis is caused by another condition, such as a joint injury, infection, or inflammatory arthritis.

• How common is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It is estimated that one in three adults over the age of 65 has osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis is more common in women than in men, and it is more common in people who are overweight or obese.

• What are osteoarthritis symptoms?

The most common symptoms of osteoarthritis are:

• Pain in the affected joint
• Stiffness in the affected joint
• Swelling in the affected joint
• Decreased range of motion in the affected joint
• Crackling or grinding sound when the joint is moved

The severity of osteoarthritis symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people may have mild symptoms that do not interfere with their daily activities. Others may have severe symptoms that make it difficult to walk, climb stairs, or perform other activities of daily living.

• What causes osteoarthritis?

The exact cause of osteoarthritis is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including:

• Genetics: Some people are more genetically predisposed to developing osteoarthritis than others.
• Aging: Osteoarthritis is more common in older adults, as cartilage naturally breaks down with age.
• Wear and tear: Osteoarthritis can develop from overuse of the joints, such as from participating in sports or having a job that requires repetitive movements.
• Injury: A joint injury, such as a torn ligament or meniscus, can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis in that joint.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts additional stress on the joints, which can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
• Sex: Women are more likely than men to develop osteoarthritis.
• Other medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout, can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.

 • Osteoarthritis risk factors

The following factors can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis:

• Age: Osteoarthritis is more common in older adults.
• Sex: Women are more likely than men to develop osteoarthritis.
• Genetics: Some people are more genetically predisposed to developing osteoarthritis than others.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts additional stress on the joints, which can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
• Joint injury: A joint injury, such as a torn ligament or meniscus, can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis in that joint.
• Occupation: Jobs that require repetitive movements or heavy lifting can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis in the affected joints.
• Sports: Certain sports, such as running and weightlifting, can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis in the affected joints.

• How is osteoarthritis diagnosed?

There is no single test to diagnose osteoarthritis. Doctors typically diagnose osteoarthritis based on a physical examination, medical history, and X-rays.

During the physical examination, the doctor will look for the following signs of osteoarthritis:

•  Pain and tenderness in the affected joint
•  Swelling in the affected joint
•  Decreased range of motion in the affected joint
•  A crackling or grinding sound when the joint is moved

The doctor will also ask you about your medical history, including:

1.  When you first started experiencing symptoms
2.  What activities make your symptoms better or worse
3.  Any other medical conditions you have
4.  Any medications you are taking

X-rays can show changes in the affected joint, such as narrowing of the joint space and bone spurs. However, X-rays alone cannot always confirm a diagnosis of osteoarthritis.

In some cases, the doctor may order other tests, such as an MRI or joint fluid analysis, to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.

• What tests are done to diagnose osteoarthritis?

The following tests may be done to help diagnose osteoarthritis:

• X-rays: X-rays can show changes in the affected joint, such as narrowing of the joint space and bone spurs.
• MRI: An MRI scan can provide more detailed images of the affected joint, including the cartilage, bones, and soft tissues.
• Joint fluid analysis: Joint fluid analysis can be used to identify inflammation and infection in the affected joint.

• How is osteoarthritis treated?

There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life.

Treatment for osteoarthritis typically includes a combination of lifestyle changes and medications.

• Lifestyle changes 

• Maintaining a healthy weight: Excess weight puts additional stress on the joints, so losing weight can help reduce pain and improve joint function.
• Exercising regularly: Exercise helps to strengthen the muscles around the joints and improve joint function. However, it is important to choose low-impact exercises that do not put too much stress on the joints.
• Applying heat or ice: Heat and ice can help to reduce pain and inflammation in the affected joints.
• Using a brace or splint: A brace or splint can help to support the joint and reduce pain.

• Medications

• Over-the-counter pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Prescription pain relievers: Prescription pain relievers, such as opioids, may be used for severe pain.
• Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs that can be injected into the affected joint to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Hyaluronic acid injections: Hyaluronic acid injections can help to lubricate the joint and reduce pain.

• Surgery

Surgery may be an option for people with severe osteoarthritis that does not respond to other treatments. Surgery options include:

• Joint replacement: Joint replacement surgery involves replacing the damaged joint with an artificial joint.
• Joint fusion: Joint fusion surgery involves fusing the bones of the joint together to eliminate pain.

• How can I prevent osteoarthritis?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent osteoarthritis. However, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Exercising regularly
• Avoiding activities that put too much stress on the joints
•  Treating joint injuries promptly

• What can I do to make living with osteoarthritis easier?

There are a number of things you can do to make living with osteoarthritis easier, such as:

1. Using assistive devices: Assistive devices, such as canes, walkers, and grab bars, can help you to get around and perform activities of daily living more easily.
2. Modifying your activities: If certain activities are painful, try to modify them or find alternative activities that are not as painful.
3. Getting enough rest: It is important to get enough rest to give your joints time to heal.
4. Managing stress: Stress can worsen osteoarthritis pain. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, and spending time with loved ones.

• What can I expect if I have osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a progressive disease, meaning that it gets worse over time. However, the rate of progression varies from person to person. Some people may experience a gradual worsening of symptoms, while others may experience more rapid progression.

There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life. With treatment, most people with osteoarthritis can live

• What can you expect if you have osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a progressive disease, meaning that it gets worse over time. However, the rate of progression varies from person to person. Some people may experience a gradual worsening of symptoms, while others may experience more rapid progression.

There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life. With treatment, most people with osteoarthritis can live active and fulfilling lives.

Here are some things you can expect if you have osteoarthritis:

Your symptoms will likely get worse over time. However, the rate of progression varies from person to person. Some people may experience a gradual worsening of symptoms, while others may experience more rapid progression.

1. You will likely need to make lifestyle changes to manage your symptoms. These changes may include maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding activities that put too much stress on your joints.
2. You may need to take medication to relieve your pain and inflammation. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can be effective for mild to moderate pain. Prescription pain relievers, such as opioids, may be necessary for severe pain.
3. You may need surgery to replace your damaged joint if other treatments are not effective. Joint replacement surgery is a very successful procedure that can help relieve pain and improve function.

• Conclusion

Osteoarthritis is a common degenerative joint disease that can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected joints. There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life.

• References

1. Arthritis Foundation: https://www.arthritis.org/
2. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: https://www.niams.nih.gov/
3. Osteoarthritis Research Society International: https://www.oarsi.org/
4. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: https://www.aaos.org/