Osteoarthritis is a common arthritic condition caused due to wear and tear. Osteoarthritis can injure any joint but the most common joints are the neck, lower back, hands, hips and the knees.There is no cure for this condition.

There are many symptoms, which give you indication that the condition has improved. There is pain during movement When pressure is applied, there is tenderness at the spot. Stiff joints are the first signal of arthritis. Lack of flexibility in joints and a grating sound is heard. Bone spurs are also symptoms of arthritis. These are extra bits of bones, which grow in lumps.  Osteoarthritis occurs when the cushion in the bones wears out.

Due to the wearing out of the cartilage, there are a series of chain reaction.Osteoarthritis increases with age and is more seen in women.There are malformed joints, which cause the arthritic condition to increase. Injuries in the joints also increase the condition of osteoarthritis. If the work is such that there is stress on a particular point continuously then the osteoarthritic condition increases. If you are overweight then the joints get overloaded and result in arthritic conditions. Diabetes, Paget’s disease, gout, increases the chances of having arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is diagnosed by a doctor after sufficient tests and examinations. Swelling and tenderness, and such signs are examined and the motion of the joint is also checked. Imaging tests are taken to get a picture of the affected joint. X-Ray is an imaging technique, in which the loss of cartilage is seen in the form of a narrowing of space between the joint bones. Magnetic Resonance Imaging uses a magnetic field to show perfect images of the soft tissues, bones and the cartilage so that the doctor can find out the exact cause of the pain. Blood test analysis can help to find out the cause. Analysis of the joint fluid is a method where the fluid from the affected joint is tested to find if there is any infection or gout.

Treatment for osteoarthritis is mainly with the intention of reducing pain and improving movement of the joints. Medications like acetaminophen, non steroidal anti inflammatory drug, and narcotics help to cure.Physical therapy, occupational therapy, braces, shoe inserts, and a chronic pain class help to learn about the treatment more. A toothbrush with a large grip makes brushing easier for a person with finger arthritis. Classes teaching skills about how to deal with your pain help to make things easier for the patient. Surgical procedures like lubrication injections, cortisone shots, realigning the bones, and replacing the joints are all ways in which you could cure the problem.

There are home remedies to deal with osteoarthritis. Have plenty of rest, exercise, and sleep.Make sure you keep your diet and daily routine under control. Have a one to one dialogue with your doctor about your health.

• Written by Rekha Garg.
• In category Diseases.
• 10 years ago.

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