OSTEOARTHRITIS or OA Symptoms-Causes-Treatment
Some people might not have symptoms.
What are the causes of osteoarthritis?
In osteoarthritis, the cushioning (cartilage) between the bones wears away in the joints. As osteoarthritis gets worse, the cartilage disappears and bone rubs on bone. Bony spurs or growths usually form around the joint. The ligaments and muscles around the joint loosen and become weaker.
Some factors that can also lead to OA are:
Medical conditions that can lead to osteoarthritis include:
What are the treatments for osteoarthritis?
There are a variety of treatments that you and your doctor can choose from. Some of those treatments include:
- What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disorder.
What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?
The symptoms of osteoarthritis include: - Deep aching joint pain that gets worse after exercise or putting weight on it, and is relieved by rest
- Pain that is worse when you start activities after a period of no activity
- Over time, pain is present even when you are at rest
- Grating of the joint with motion
- Increase in pain during humid or moist weather
- Joint swelling
- Limited movement
- Muscle weakness around arthritic joints
Some people might not have symptoms.
What are the causes of osteoarthritis?
In osteoarthritis, the cushioning (cartilage) between the bones wears away in the joints. As osteoarthritis gets worse, the cartilage disappears and bone rubs on bone. Bony spurs or growths usually form around the joint. The ligaments and muscles around the joint loosen and become weaker.
Some factors that can also lead to OA are:
- Osteoarthritis tends to run in families
- Being overweight increases the risk
- Fractures or other joint injuries can lead to osteoarthritis later in life
- Long-term overuse at work or in sports
Medical conditions that can lead to osteoarthritis include:
- Bleeding disorders that cause bleeding in the joint
- Disorders that block the blood supply near a joint
- Other types of arthritis
What are the treatments for osteoarthritis?
There are a variety of treatments that you and your doctor can choose from. Some of those treatments include:
- Medications (over the counter and prescribed)
- Over-the-counter remedies such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate
- Lifestyle changes (proper rest, balanced diet, weight loss, proper exercise)
- Physical Therapy
- Braces (for support, to limit motion or to relieve stress)
- Surgery