Causes of Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is caused by the gradual breakdown of cartilage in the joints from overuse. Several factors may contribute to the development of OA:
- Age: The risk of developing OA increases with age.
- Genetics: Some people inherit a tendency to develop OA.
- Joint injury: A bone fracture or ligament tear can lead to OA, potentially faster than it would in an uninjured joint.
- Obesity: Excess weight places additional stress on weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and hips.
- Overuse: Jobs or activities that place repetitive stress on a joint can lead to OA.
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
Symptoms of OA vary, but the most common include:
- Pain: Affected joints might hurt during or after movement.
- Stiffness: Joint stiffness may be most noticeable upon waking up or after being inactive.
- Tenderness: The joint may feel tender when you apply light pressure to it.
- Loss of Flexibility: You might not be able to move your joint through its full range of motion.
- Grating Sensation: You might feel a grating sensation when you use the joint, and you might hear popping or crackling.
- Bone Spurs: These extra bits of bone, which feel like hard lumps, can form around the affected joint.
Prognosis of Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition that tends to worsen over time. While there is no cure, the progression of the disease can be managed, and symptoms can be controlled through lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and medication. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can improve the quality of life for individuals with OA.
Procedure Videos
Joint Injection
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation
Peripheral Nerve Blocks and Radiofrequency Ablation
Diagnosis of Osteoarthritis
Your healthcare provider will diagnose OA based on your medical history, symptoms, and a physical examination. Specific tests used to diagnose OA include:
- X-rays: X-rays can show the extent of joint damage, such as loss of cartilage, bone spurs, and changes in bone structure.
- MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging provides detailed images of soft tissues, including cartilage.
- Joint Aspiration: In some cases, fluid may be drawn from the affected joint and examined for signs of inflammation.
Osteoarthritis of the left hip (on right side of the image)
Pain Medicine Intervention of Osteoarthritis
Managing pain is crucial for OA patients. Treatment options include:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Prescription medications: For severe pain, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications.
- Topical analgesics: Creams and gels applied to the skin over the affected joint can provide temporary pain relief.
Treatment of Osteoarthritis
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving joint function. Common treatments include:
- Physical Therapy: Specific exercises can help strengthen the muscles around your joint, increase your range of motion, and reduce pain.
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce stress on weight-bearing joints.
- Assistive Devices: Using devices such as canes, braces, and shoe inserts can help reduce strain on the joints.
- Cortisone Injections: Experienced clinicians can administer cortisone shots which contain steroids to help reduce inflammation, decreasing swelling and pain in arthritic joints.
- Surgical Options: If conservative treatments don’t help, your doctor may suggest surgical procedures such as joint replacement or joint fusion.
References
- “Osteoarthritis.” Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoarthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351925. Accessed July 13, 2024.
- “Osteoarthritis (OA).” Arthritis Foundation. https://www.arthritis.org/diseases/osteoarthritis. Accessed July 13, 2024.
- “Osteoarthritis.” Johns Hopkins Medicine. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/osteoarthritis. Accessed July 13, 2024.
- “Osteoarthritis (OA).” Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/5599-osteoarthritis. Accessed July 14, 2024.
- Osteoarthritis: Novus spine & pain center in Lakeland, Florida. Novus Spine & Pain Center. https://novusspinecenter.com/pain-conditions/osteoarthritis Accessed July 14, 2024.
- Osteoarthritis of the hip: Radiology reference article. Radiopaedia. https://radiopaedia.org/articles/osteoarthritis-of-the-hip?lang=us Accessed July 14, 2024.
