Osteoarthritis
- Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, the cushioning tissue covering the ends of bones in joints. As cartilage wears away, bones may rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and decreased joint function.
- Risk factors for osteoarthritis include aging, obesity, joint injury or overuse, genetics, and certain medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or metabolic disorders. It commonly affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine, as well as hands and feet.
- Management of osteoarthritis aims to relieve pain, improve joint function, and enhance quality of life through a combination of non-pharmacological interventions such as exercise, weight management, physical therapy, and assistive devices, as well as medications such as analgesics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroid injections, or hyaluronic acid injections. In severe cases, surgical interventions such as joint replacement surgery or arthroscopy may be considered to repair or replace damaged joints. Regular monitoring and ongoing management are essential to optimize outcomes and minimize disability associated with osteoarthritis.
