Osteoarthritis is a disease that causes the destruction of the cartilage in any joint. This removes the cushion from the joint, allowing the bones meeting in that joint to rub against each other. This rubbing often results in pain while the joint is in use. Osteoarthritis is also known as degenerative joint disease, and can occur in any joint of the body.
Causes of Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis has two causes. One is trauma to a joint. Any type of trauma can damage ligaments, tendons and cartilage of the joint. This damage can cause a joint to function differently and wear away the cartilage, causing degeneration. The other cause of osteoarthritis is a metabolic problem. This would cause a disruption in the building or maintenance of the cartilage of the joint, causing degeneration and pain.
Signs and Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
Pain in the joint, tenderness and swelling are signs of osteoarthritis. Usually these symptoms will subside with rest. However, as the disease progresses, rest will not offer as much relief. A medical professional will diagnose osteoarthritis based on history, examination of the joint, and X-rays. The X-rays may show narrowing of the joint space, spurring or osteophyte formations, and changes to the bones.
Treatments for Osteoarthritis
Treatments for osteoarthritis are focused on decreasing pain and increasing quality of life. Exercise and weight loss are common ways to relieve pain in the weight-bearing joints. Anti-inflammatory treatments are often recommended. These could include over-the-counter medication, prescriptions, supplements, or diet changes to decrease inflammatory foods.
Exercising with Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis pain may discourage some people from exercising or using the joints. When weight loss is one of the treatments for decreasing pain caused by this disease, some people turn to low-impact exercises. One form of low-impact exercising -- often one of the best and least painful -- is water or aqua therapy. Water walking can help a patient increase activity, lose weight and decrease pain. Some patients join a water aerobics class to have a varied routine under direction of a supervisor or trainer. Other low-impact exercises may include walking or bicycling.
Precautions
Seek your doctor's advice before beginning an exercise routine or supplements. Always start an exercise program slowly and work up to recommended levels.
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