When it comes to osteoarthritis, a little understanding goes a long way

“…The knee bone's connected to the thigh bone; The thigh bone's connected to the hip bone…” Bones are connected via joints and the joints allow movement. However, by the age of 65 years, more than half of Americans will have X-ray evidence of a joint disease known as osteoarthritis (OA). Millions suffer from the chronic pain that it causes and the resultant sleep disturbances, difficulty with activities of daily living and depression.

Dr. Nina’s What You Need To Know: About Osteoarthritis

What are joints?

Located within joints are cartilage, as well as muscles, ligaments, bursa, and joint fluid. Cartilage is a smooth, teflon-like substance on the end of bones that serves as a shock absorber and coating for nearly frictionless movement. Its purpose is to prevent damage to the underlying bone. There is estimated to be between 200 and 400 joints in the human body.

What is osteoarthritis?

When the protective cartilage on the ends of your bones wears down over time, it leaves bone rubbing on bone. The friction causes damage to the bone itself: loss of normal shape; bits of bone or cartilage breaking off and floating within the joint space; and bone spurs (bony projections that develop from friction, akin to a callous). Cartilage cannot easily repair or regrow itself because there are no blood vessels in it that can supply the necessary fuel and building blocks.

What joints does it affect?

Although osteoarthritis can damage any joint in your body, the disorder most commonly affects weight-bearing joints of the hands, knees, hips and spine. We are also seeing a growing trend of OA in the wrists and fingers attributed to technology – too much texting, interaction with “apps” and video gaming.

Who is at risk for osteoarthritis?

While not all mature adults have joint pain, increasing age results in wear and tear; increased body weight puts more pressure on the joints; injuries from repetitive motion, such as sports, or an accident; and having diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis. Generally speaking, over the age of 55, women are affected more than men.

What are symptoms?

They include joint pain during or after movement; stiffness that is most pronounced after inactivity such as when waking up; loss of flexibility; and tenderness when light pressure is applied. Symptoms will typically develop slowly and can worsen with time.

When should I see my healthcare provider?

If you are experiencing joint pain or tenderness for a couple of weeks, plan a visit to your healthcare provider. Before seeing your provider, prepare for the visit! Write out your symptoms (when it begun, does it come or go, or is it continuous); what activities exacerbate it; any prior injuries; other medical problems; all prescription and non-prescription medications you are taking; and any questions that you have in regards.

How is osteoarthritis diagnosed?

Based on history, physical exam, radiological imaging, and possibly blood testing.

What are the available osteoarthritis treatments?

At this time, there is no known cure. However, there are currently a number of treatments that can help slow down the process, decrease pain, and improve joint movement.

• Medications: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) has been shown to decrease pain in those with mild to moderate pain. However, there have been reports it may not be as effective for the treatment of lower back, hip or knee pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, referred to as NSAIDs, have been reported to help decrease pain and inflammation. They include Advil, Aleve, and Motrin. It is important to see your medical physician to discuss prior to taking any of these medications to ensure (and for monitoring) that it is the right one for you.
• Therapy: Physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles around the joint, improve range of motion, and decrease pain. Occupational therapy can teach you how to reduce strain on your joints during daily activities. For example, a person with knee or hip arthritis may benefit from techniques on how to get in and out of a car or walking around the house or outdoors. 
• Procedures: Cortisone shots may help alleviate joint pain. The procedure involves needle insertion into the joint in order to deliver steroids that can decrease inflammation and, as a result, pain. In a similar manner, hyaluronic acid is a viscous substance that can be injected to provide lubrication and a cushioning effect in the joint. 
• Surgery: An orthopedic surgeon (bone specialist) can perform a joint replacement where they clean out and remove damaged joint surfaces and replace them with either metal or plastic parts.

Can I prevent osteoarthritis?

Experts recommend four steps to help prevent or slow down the progression of the disease: Weight control (decreased stress and pressure on the joints), exercise (improved strength and endurance of muscles that surround your joint, providing stabilization), avoiding injuries and getting them treated, and eating right as well as drinking plenty of water. Drinking water can reduce pain in your joints by keeping the cartilage soft and hydrated.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis that affects millions of Americans (more than 70% of adults between 55 and 78 years of age). Sadly, significant disability, pain and loss of function are associated with this disease. If you or someone you love suffers with osteoarthritis – take time for added support ... not just with the symptoms, risks and causes but understanding how it impacts day-to-day lives. When it comes to health, “a little understanding goes a long way.” 

This information is for educational purposes and should not be considered specific medical advice. Always consult with a qualified medical professional regarding your individual circumstances.

Dr. Nina Radcliff is dedicated to her profession, her patients and her community, at large. She is passionate about sharing wise preventive health measures.