Arthritis is a painful disease that takes on several forms. Living as comfortably with it as you can is key to maintaining an enjoyable lifestyle. There are several different types of arthritis. First, let’s define each one and then learn to live with them.

Osteoarthritis

This form of arthritis can be caused by congenital defects, trauma, metabolic disorders, or wear and tear on a joint. “Osteo” means “bone,” and “arthritis” means “inflammation.” Osteoarthritis is the progressive breakdown of cartilage. Cartilage is necessary to protect and cushion joints. Once the cartilage is broken down, the bones begin to rub against each other causing damage to the bones and the underlying tissue. A person affected by osteoarthritis will feel more pain throughout the day as the joints are used more often. Their joints will appear larger and will feel stiff and painful. The most common joints for this disease to strike are the hips and knees, although any joint may be affected. Osteoarthritis is limited to the joints. Given enough time, osteoarthritis can become crippling. Obesity and osteoporosis (bone loss) may aggravate the disease. Changes in the weather can affect the severity of the symptoms of the disease.

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis:

• Limited joint movement
• Joint pain, usually associated with activity, sometimes accompanied by “creaking”
• Pain in the spine
• Stiffness, lasting less than thirty minutes
• Joint tenderness
• Occasional swelling, caused by fluid around the joint
• Joint deformity, in advanced stages
• Grinding sensation with joint movement

Diagnosing Osteoarthritis:

Your physician will diagnose the disease on the basis of your history, joint pain, restricted movement, and x-rays of the joint. Early treatment can arrest or improve the disease. There is no cure.

Treatment of Osteoarthritis:

Treatment may include medications to control inflammation and pain, exercise to keep joints mobile, and heat and cold therapy. Your physician will base your treatment on how severe the disease is, how much your symptoms affect your daily life, and the amount of joint damage you have suffered. The goal of treatment is to ultimately manage the disease by reducing symptoms and maintaining joint functions.