Osteoarthritis is also known as degenerative arthritis or degenerative joint disease. According to Mayo Clinic physicians, osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritic condition and happens when the cartilage in the joint spaces wear down over time. The hands, hips, knees, neck and lower back are the most commonly affected joints in the body. The degeneration of cartilage continues to worsen over time. Unfortunately, there is no known cure, but there are methods of protecting the joints and slowing the progression of pain.
Cause
As the cushioning cartilage located in the joints wears away, the bone begins to rub on bone. Doctors at the University of Maryland Medical Center warn that with additional use and motion, bone spurs develop around the joint. The ligaments and muscles loosen and become weaker. Doctors may not be able to pinpoint a causative factor for osteoarthritis but they do know that several factors can lead to the development of this degenerative condition. These factors include obesity, fractures, long-term overuse of a joint at work or recreational activities, and genetics.
Symptoms
According to the University of Washington Orthopedics and Sports Medicine department, symptoms of osteoarthritis are characterized by clinical symptoms of joint pain, limited range of motion and instability of the joint, stiffness and roughness in the joint during motion. Imaging studies will also reveal a combination of erosion of the cartilage in the joint space, a narrowing of the joint space and possible bone spurs.
Diagnosis
Physicians will take a thorough medical history and do a physical examination. Based on these results they may recommend imaging tests and lab work, according to physicians at the Mayo Clinic. Doctors may request an X-ray of the affected joints, looking for narrowed joint spaces and bone spurs. An MRI will give a better image of soft tissue changes to the cartilage and greater detail of the bone. Blood tests will be done to rule out other causes of joint damage, such as rheumatoid arthritis. In some cases an evaluation of the fluid found in the joint will help to determine if there is inflammation and if the pain is related to gout or an infection.
Treatment
Osteoarthritis is treated using a combination of methodologies, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Treatment protocols are directed at slowing the progression of the disease, improving the function of the joint and reducing the pain. Recommendations will include weight reduction when appropriate, exercise to increase the strength of the muscles supporting the affected joint, medications and pain relief techniques. Patients will be advised to rest and relieve the stress on the joints and may receive recommendations for complementary and alternative therapies to augment a traditional approach.
Prevention
Although a definitive cause of osteoarthritis has not been identified, doctors do know of several factors that will increase the likelihood of developing this crippling condition. By addressing the factors over which patients have control they can reduce the potential they will develop pain, swelling and discomfort. Patients should become educated about the disease and learn to modify their habits and behaviors to reduce stress on the joints. Exercise, weight reduction, good nutrition and plenty of rest will help to improve overall health and decrease the stress placed on the joints.
