OSTEOARTHRITIS – Its Causes, sign & symptoms
Inflammation of joints is called arthritis. The destruction of cartilage between bones forming the joint causes inflammation to that joint that causes friction between bones i.e.; rubbing of bones together.
It can occur in any joint. More common in knee joint.
CAUSES
- Obesity
- Genetics
- Injury to joint
- Repetitive joint movements
- Autoimmune disorders
- Dislocation of joint
- Injury to ligaments
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- Joint pain
- Soreness to joint especially during the movement
- Swelling to joint
- Restricted range of motion (movement at the joint)
- Stiffness to the joint
- Tenderness
- Crepitus(cracking sound in the joint)
- Bone ossification
- Lack of flexibility
RISK FACTORS
- Genetics: inherited bone deformities
- Gender : most likely to occur in females than males.
- Age : most likely to occur in old age people
- Weight: obese people are likely to develop osteoarthritis
- Prior injuries
- Prolong stress on the joint
- Diabetic conditions
TREATMENT
- Ice application on the affected area to reduce swelling
- Weight loss
- Muscle strengthening exercises
- Stretching exercises
- Hydrotherapy exercises: water resistance provides better strength and flexibility
- Contrast bath (hot and cold therapy)
- Mobility devices
When to see a doctor
When the pain is unbearable and interfere with the activities of daily living.
PRECAUTIONS
- Maintain an average body mass index(BMI): keeping a healthy body weight
- Keep your sugar intake limited
- Maintain a regular schedule for mobility exercises
- Maintain correct posture
- Avoid putting weight on only side of the body
- Rest for 5 min every half and hour if your work includes repetitive movements
