Osteoarthritis, commonly known as OA, is one of the most common forms of arthritis. It develops from the disintegration of a joint's cartilage, causing bones to rub against each other, notes the Arthritis Foundation. Other names for the condition include degenerative joint disease and degenerative arthritis. OA is a chronic disease, and there is no cure, but treatments are available to manage the condition.
Significance
According to the Arthritis Foundation, approximately 27 million Americans live with OA. The majority of individuals suffering from OA are older; the Mayo Clinic states that individuals under the age of 40 years old rarely develop the condition. Women, obese individuals, people with bone deformities and individuals with certain diseases like gout or rheumatoid arthritis are all more likely to develop OA.
Features
OA typically develops gradually, and the areas most commonly affected include the knees, hips, fingers, neck and lower back, says the Arthritis Foundation. Common features of OA that the Arthritis Foundation lists include joint soreness, especially after overuse or periods of inactivity; joint pain that intensifies over the day; morning stiffness that lasts less than half an hour and coordination, posture and walking problems caused by pain and stiffness.
Medication
Individuals dealing with OA can take medication to decrease the symptoms of the condition and reduce pain. Acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, are over-the-counter medications that can be used to reduce pain and inflammation that occurs with OA. The Mayo Clinic also lists prescription drugs that can be used to treat more severe OA, including tramadol, codeine and propoxyphene. Cortisone shots given by a physician can help to relieve pain in the joint.
Therapy
Working with a physical therapist can help an individual with OA work on strengthening the muscles around the joints, increasing range of motion in the affected joints. According to the Mayo Clinic, an occupational therapist can help an individual find new ways of performing daily activities that take stress off the affected joints. Shoe inserts, braces or splints can immobilize and support painful joints. Some medical centers provide pain classes for individuals with OA that provide instruction on how to cope with pain and complications from OA.
Surgery
According to the Arthritis Foundation, the majority of people with OA will not need surgery, but for those individuals with severe pain, very restricted range of motion or extreme joint damage, surgical procedures may be necessary. Arthroplasty, also known as joint replacement, replaces damaged joints with prostheses, relieving pain and providing better range of motion. Realigning or fusing bones can help reduce pain and increase stability, states the Mayo Clinic, especially in younger individuals with OA who cannot have joint replacement surgery.
Considerations
People may experience OA in a variety of ways, depending on how advanced the disease is. Discussing treatment options with a physician with experience in OA can help an individual choose the appropriate treatment for the situation.
