Joint
Center FAQs
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis, the most common form
of arthritis, is also called degenerative joint disease or
“wear and tear” arthritis. Almost everyone is
affected by it to some extent as they grow older. It most
frequently occurs in weight-bearing joints, mainly knees,
hips, and ankles. This form of arthritis slowly and gradually
breaks down the cartilage that covers the ends of each bone
in a joint. Normally, cartilage acts as a shock absorber,
providing a smooth surface between the bones. But with osteoarthritis,
the smooth surface becomes rough and pitted. In advanced stages,
it may wear away completely. Without their normal gliding
surfaces, the bones grind against one another, causing inflammation,
pain and restricted movement. Bone spurs may form.
Back to Top 
What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?
The number one symptom is pain. The
pain is caused by irritation and pressure on nerve endings,
as well as muscle tension and fatigue. The pain can progress
from mild soreness and aching with movement to severe pain,
even when resting. The second symptom is loss of easy movement,
such as bending or rising normally. Morning stiffness is a
problem for many people. This lack of mobility, in turn, often
causes the muscles serving the knee or hip to weaken, and
overall body coordination suffers.
Back to Top
How is osteoarthritis diagnosed?
A simple weight-bearing X-ray and examination by a skilled
orthopedic doctor will determine if you have osteoarthritis.
Time-consuming and costly diagnostic procedures are not
required.
Back to Top
What is the treatment for osteoarthritis?
There is no cure for arthritis,
but the past decade has seen dramatic new ways to manage
the pain, lack of mobility, and fatigue that are among its
most disabling symptoms.
- Hyaluronate -
The new treatment lubricates the knees and can reduce
pain for 9-12 months. It’s the first major breakthrough
in 20 years for arthritis knee pain. Hyalgan is the brand
name, and five injections are given into the knee one
week apart.
- Medicines -
Coated aspirin helps relieve pain and has few side effects.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), such as
Voltaren, Feldene, Naprosyn, and Clinoril, are prescription
drugs for pain and inflammations. Do not take aspirin
if you are taking NSAIDS.
- Cortisone Shots -
Cortisone shots are given for inflammation. For many people,
joint arthritis is often made symptom-free for months
or even years after cortisone shots. Four to six shots
a year can be given without any dangerous side effects.
- Diet -
There is no evidence that any specific foods will prevent
or relieve arthritis symptoms. It’s important to
keep thin, however, because excess weight aggravates arthritis
by putting added pressure on the knee and hip.
- Exercise and Rest - Prolonged
rest and days of inactivity will increase stiffness and
make it harder to move around. Motion is lotion for arthritis!
At the same time, excessive or improper exercise can overwork
your arthritic joint and cause further damage. A balanced
routine of rest and exercise is best.
Back to Top
What about surgery?
- Arthroscopy - Arthroscopic
procedures are not generally helpful for arthritis. In
some cases, a “flap” of torn knee cartilage
can aggravate arthritis and cause additional pain. The
cartilage flap can be removed by arthroscopy.
- Knee or Hip Replacement - Knee
replacement or hip replacement may be a very positive
solution to the pain and disability of advanced osteoarthritis.
The rough, worn surfaces of the joint are relined with
smooth-surfaced metal and plastic components.
Back to Top
|
