CONDITIONS
Osteoarthritis
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a common joint disorder characterised by the gradual deterioration of the cartilage that lines the ends of bones within joints.
Cartilage is a smooth, rubbery tissue serving as a shock absorber and enabling smooth joint movement. In osteoarthritis, this cartilage becomes thinner and rougher, leading to increased friction between bones, which in turn results in pain and stiffness.
Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body, but it most frequently occurs in the knees, hips, hands, and spine. It is a degenerative condition often associated with ageing, although younger individuals may also develop osteoarthritis due to injury or overuse.
What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?
Symptoms typically develop gradually and vary depending on the affected joint and the severity of the condition. The most common symptoms include:
- Pain: often most noticeable during and after joint movement; can progress to being present even at rest over time.
- Stiffness: particularly apparent after periods of inactivity, such as upon waking or after prolonged sitting.
- Reduced range of motion: due to cartilage degeneration, making bending or straightening the joint difficult.
- Crepitus: a cracking or grinding noise caused by bone friction within the joint during movement.
- Swelling: may occur due to inflammation or the presence of extra bone growths (osteophytes) around the joint.
- Joint deformity: in severe cases, structural changes and osteophyte accumulation may visibly enlarge or distort the joint.
What are the possible causes of osteoarthritis?
Key contributing factors include:
- Ageing
- Excess body weight
- Joint injury or overuse
- Genetic predisposition
- Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or hemochromatosis
- Structural joint abnormalities (e.g., unequal leg length, malformed joints)
How can osteoarthritis be prevented?
While osteoarthritis cannot be prevented entirely, certain measures may reduce your risk or slow its progression:
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress, particularly on knees and hips.
- Engage in regular, moderate exercise to strengthen surrounding muscles and protect joints. Activities such as walking, swimming, and cycling are beneficial.
- Avoid overloading joints by taking regular breaks and varying tasks.
- Use proper techniques and protective gear during sports or physical activities; supportive footwear helps safeguard knees and ankles.
- Maintain good posture to lessen joint stress and consider ergonomic adjustments to your home or work environment.
- Prevent joint injuries by using protective equipment (e.g., wrist or knee pads) during contact sports.
How is osteoarthritis treated?
Treatment focuses on alleviating pain, improving joint function, and slowing the disease’s progression. Options include:
- Physiotherapy: tailored exercise programmes to strengthen surrounding muscles, enhance flexibility, and reduce pain. Such regimens may incorporate strengthening, stretching, and aerobic activities.
- Manual therapy: hands-on techniques such as joint mobilisation and soft tissue massage to improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance overall joint function.
- Joint support devices: use of braces, splints, orthotic insoles, or assistive devices such as walking sticks or crutches to support joints, reduce load, and relieve pain.
- Lifestyle and nutritional advice: guidance from a dietitian on maintaining a healthy weight and incorporating anti-inflammatory foods, like those rich in omega-3 fatty acids, into your diet.
- Education & self-management: understanding osteoarthritis and learning to modify activities, rest when needed, and maintain movement within comfort limits to preserve joint function.