Osteoarthritis is one of the oldest and most common causes of joint pain and known as the degenerative arthritis or joint pain. It is a chronic condition involving the breakdown of the joint’s cartilage. Cartilage is the part of the joint that cushions the ends of the bones as a shock absorber and a lubricant to protect the bones and allow easy movement of joints.When this cartilage wears away the bones rub against each other, causing stiffness, pain and loss of movement in the joint.
There is no cure, but the early stages of Osteoarthritis can be treated with conservative non-surgical treatments.As the cartilage continues to wear away and the symptoms are more severe, surgery may be recommended to correct the damaged bone and cartilage.An observation of your movement, review of your health history and x-rays of the affected joint will help us determine the best course of treatment so that motion can be restored and pain is reduced.The technique of total joint replacement uses prosthetic implants to replace damaged sections of bone and cartilage in the joint with the purpose of restoring function and mobility and to provide relief from pain. The most common reason joints are replaced is osteoarthritis.
The joints most affected are the knees, hips, fingers and shoulders and you may experience these symptoms: joint pain while standing or moving; giving out or locking of joint; near constant pain; decreased activity; abnormal stance or walk; and trouble walking up or down stairs; .You will find through the stages that the cartilage loses elasticity and is more easily damaged by injury or use and will cause changes to underlying bones.Cysts may occur under cartilage or bony growths called spurs or osteophytes can develop near the end of the bone and the affected joint.Bits of bone or cartilage float loosely in joint space and the joint lining becomes inflamed.
Arthritis pain relief can be found with physical therapy, exercise, and the right weight can help keep your joints moving and relieve pain.Pain relievers known as nosterodial anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help control swelling and pain. Assisted devices like a cane or walker can help reduce pressure placed on joints and alleviate pain along with resting after an activity. Joint replacement surgery can restore mobility and provide relief from pain.
RheumatoidArthritis isa chronic disease, mainly characterized by inflammation of the lining, or synovium of the joints.It can lead to long-term joint damage, resulting in chronic pain, loss of function and disability.It affects mostly women and is an autoimmune disease, the cause of which is unknown. The body’s immunological system attacks healthytissue , causing inflammation and subsequent joint damage.
Rheumatoid arthritis progresses in three stages.The first stage is the swelling of the synovial lining, causing pain, warmth, stiffness, redness and swelling around the joint. Second is the rapid division and growth of cells or pannus, which causes the synovium to thicken.In the third stage, the inflamed cells release enzymes that may digest bone and cartilage, often causing the involved join to lose its shape and alignment, more pain, and loss of movement.
There is no cure and will continue indefinitely and if you want to continue living a productive life style, you are a good candidate for joint replacement surgery.
Arthritis treatment options:
Get a proper diagnosis (see your physician)
Start an exercise program (see your physician)
Activity modifications
Heat/cold
Nutritional supplements
Orthotics/Bracing/Self-Help Devices/Support
Control pain
Injections
See a Surgeon who specializes in arthritis and joint replacement
