OSTEOARTHRITIS

(Degenerative Joint Disease)

BASIC INFORMATION

DESCRIPTION

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the gradual deterioration (degeneration)

of cartilage in a joint. It is most common in

weight-bearing joints (feet, ankles, knees, hips). It also

affects fingers, wrists, shoulders, and spine. The cartilage

normally forms a soft protective layer at the ends of

bones at a joint. When the cartilage deteriorates, it

allows the bones to rub together. This causes the pain

and limited movement. It can occur at any age, but is

more likely in adults over age 45. It is the most common

type of arthritis and can lead to disability.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Joint stiffness and pain, including backache. Weather

changes, such as cold and damp, may increase aching.

• Joints have limited movement and less flexibility.

•No redness, heat, or fever in affected joints (usually).

•May have swelling of affected joints, such as fingers.

•May have cracking or grating sounds in joints.

CAUSES

Why it occurs is unclear. There is no single cause.

Biologic, mechanical, hereditary, trauma, or congenital

factors are involved.

RISK INCREASES WITH

• Age over 50 and females more than males.

• Obesity; joint injury; overuse or weakness of muscles.

• Family history of osteoarthritis.

• Having other bone or joint disease.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

None specific. To reduce risk, maintain normal weight

for height and body structure. Be physically active, but

avoid activities that lead to joint injury, especially after

age 40. Try regular stretching or yoga exercises.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

There is no cure and the disorder can slowly worsen

with time. Treatment can help control pain symptoms

and help maintain function.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Symptoms can lead to limits in daily activities, affect

the ability to work, bring on stress and depression, and

restrict social and recreational activities.

•Drugs used in treatment can have adverse effects.

DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

• Your health care provider will do a physical exam and

ask questions about your symptoms and activities.

Medical tests can include blood and joint fluid studies,

x-rays, or MRI.

• Treatment goals are to control pain, slow progression

of the disorder, and improve mobility and function.

• Treatment may include lifestyle changes, self-care

steps, drug therapy, and more rarely, surgery.

• Lifestyle changes may involve diet (to achieve healthy

weight), exercises, and/or using mechanical aids.

• Mechanical aids can include: shock-absorbing or

orthopedic shoes, canes, crutches, or walkers. They

may include splints, braces, or elastic supports to help

joints; neck brace, collar, or corset to help back pain.

• Heat can ease discomfort or pain. Use heating pads or

warm soaks several times a day for 10 minutes at a time.

• Cold can help reduce swelling and inflammation. Use

an ice pack several times a day for 20 to 30 minutes.

• Acupuncture may help some people.

• Surgery for osteoarthritis may be recommended for

some patients. There are different options.

• To learn more: Arthritis Foundation, local chapter, or

contact them at PO Box 7669, Atlanta, GA 30357-0669;

(800) 283-7800; website: www.arthritis.org.

MEDICATIONS

• Self-care for pain:

- Nonprescription topical pain creams/gels.

- Acetaminophen for mild to moderate pain.

- NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) for

pain and inflammation.

- Get medical advice about other supplements.

• Stronger oral pain relievers or cortisone injections

into joints may be prescribed.

• Artificial joint fluid injections may be recommended.

• Other drugs may be prescribed as needed.

ACTIVITY

• Exercise is beneficial. Your health care provider can

advise you about an exercise program. Swimming or

water aerobics are good. They don’t stress the joints.

• Physical therapy may be prescribed to help maintain

muscle strength and joint function.

DIET

If you are overweight, any weight loss will help joints.

NOTIFY OUR OFFICE IF

• You or a family member has joint pain or stiffness.

• Symptoms worsen after treatment starts.

•Drugs used for treatment cause worrying side effects.