Osteoarthritis 101!

Osteoarthritis, often referred to as DJD or Degenerative Joint Disease, is the most common form of arthritis affecting over 21 million people today in the United States alone. This disease appears to affect all races equally. However, the most common group to suffer from its debilitating effects are the aging or the elderly population.

Osteoarthritis is caused by a breakdown of cartilage in the joints between our bones. This cartilage acts as a cushion when we move our joints and bones. When there is cartilage loss, there can be direct bone-on-bone contact, which has an extremely painful effect of Osteoarthritis.

The primary "cause" of Osteoarthritis is merely a consequence of getting older and our joints suffering normal wear and tear. But other factors may heighten our chances of developing the condition, such as being overweight, which causes extra stress on the joints, injuries and repetitive use of joints as well as a family history of Osteoarthritis.

A blood test is not needed to diagnose Osteoarthritis, but they can be used to rule out other conditions if there are varying symptoms involved. A procedure called Arthrocentesis in which joint fluid is removed for analysis is one way to determine if a patient has Osteoarthritis. An Arthroscopy is a surgical technique in which the doctor can "see" the joint space and any abnormalities to determine if any repair is possible.

The most common method of diagnosing Osteoarthritis is through the use of X-rays that can show the damage that has been done to the joints already. Typically, X-rays will show bone spurs, narrowing of the space between the joints and cartilage loss as evidence of the condition.

There is a definite loss of mobility associated with Osteoarthritis due to the swelling and pain that one experiences. And unlike other types of arthritis, Osteoarthritis only affects the joints and not the internal organs. Rheumatoid arthritis, for example, the second most common form of the disease, often starts at a much younger age than Osteoarthritis and may make people feel sick overall as well as fatigued and sometimes feverish.

Although Osteoarthritis can affect both genders, it seems to strike men more before the age of 45 and women after they reach 55 years old. There are several treatment options available to sufferers today such as those that are medicinally based like topical creams, oral medications or even those that are injectable to ease inflammation and pain. Weight loss is also highly recommended as is regular exercise, wearing supports, using heat and allowing the joints to rest properly.

Knee braces, canes and walkers can all be helpful for those suffering with Osteoarthritis and swimming is an excellent form of gentle exercise that is easy on stiff, swollen or painful joints. Proper guidance from a health professional is essential in improving and managing the ill effects of this condition.

Unfortunately, as of yet, there are no methods of detecting Osteoarthritis in its earliest, and most treatable stages. Although with the help of lifestyle changes, along with drugs and medical treatments, people may be able to experience some relief from this disease.


Make it a great day!

Chris Walker

www.chriswalkersfitness.com