Osteoarthritis : You must know

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Osteoarthritis is one of the most prevailing rheumatologic problem not only in India but throughout the world.In India it holds the 2nd most common rheumatologic problem with a prevalance of 22%to 39%.As the world is heading towards more advancement,on the other hand sedentary lifestyles are commonly resposible for Osteoarthritis.

Definition of osteoarthritis:

Osteoarthritis is also called degenerative joint disease or osteoarthrosis.This is a leading cause of pain and disability in elderly person.It occurs dramatically with age and is mostly common in women than men.

Characteristic features

This is characterized by loss of articular cartilage in articulating joint and hypertrophy of the bones at the articular margins.

Hand, wrist, neck, lower back, hip, knee, ankle, feet mostly affected

4 signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis:

1) PAIN: localised to affected joints ( weight bearing joints )numbness and tingling may be present.
2)STIFFNESS: Mostly present in morning after awakening usually last more than 30 minutes and relieved after resuming activity.
3)FUNCTIONAL IMPAIRMENT: Occurs after structural changes occur in joint.Range of motion decreases grafting and crepitus may be present during movement.
4)BONY NODES PRESENT: Heberden's nodes present in inter phageal joints.

Diagnosis of osteoarthritis

X Ray studies of affected joints.It shows reduced joint space and osteophytes.
Physical examination reveals tenderness and enlarged affected joints.
Blood test to evaluate the presence of hyaluronic acid(HA).This indicate the presence and severity of osteoarthritis.

Complications of osteoarthritis.

1) Rapid complete breakdown of cartilage resulting in chondrolysis.
2) Bone death(osteonecrosis)
3) Bleeding inside the joint.
4) Stress fractures
5) Osteoarthritis if not treated will add to degradation of the structures in and around the joint leading to more and more pain and a loff of function may lead to the state of total joint replacement.

The treatment regimen includes:

1) Medicine
2) Conservative treatment
3) Surgical treatment.

MEDICINE:

Usually doctor recommend analgesics,Nsaids,salicylates,muscle relaxants and intra articular steroids

2)Conservative treatment:

Weight reduction for obese patients.
Range of motion exercises,muscle strengthening exercise like quadriceps and aerobic exercises
Application of heat and ice
Avoidance of overuse of joints
Balance between exercise and joint
Use of assistive devices like canes,walker,splints and braces.

3)Surgical management:

This includes osteotomy,Arthroscopy,joint arthroplasty and total joint replacement.

Home care advice for person with osteoarthritis

Maintenance of posture sitting on straight chair.
Sleep on firm mattress.
Reduce weight if obese.
Take medicine as prescribed.
Modification in living environment use of rails for getting out of bed
Use elevated toilet seat.