Osteoarthritis (OA): An Overview
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a condition characterized by joint damage, primarily caused by the wear and tear of cartilage, the tissue that cushions the ends of your bones and joints. When this cartilage deteriorates, it exposes nerve endings in the bones, resulting in OA pain.
OA is the most common form of arthritis and is degenerative, worsening with age. However, it can also develop following an injury.
Without proper treatment, chronic pain from OA can lead to complications and significantly diminish your quality of life.
Symptoms of OA
Common symptoms of OA include:
- Pain, tenderness, and stiffness in the joints
- Loss of flexibility
- Bone spurs
- A grating sensation from bones rubbing together
Risk Factors for OA
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis, including:
- Older Age: Cartilage naturally deteriorates with age.
- Gender: Women are more likely to develop OA, though the reasons are not well understood.
- Overweight or Obesity: Excess weight can put additional stress on joints.
- Joint Injury: Previously injured joints are more susceptible to OA.
- Hypermobility: Having hypermobile joints or loose ligaments can increase risk.
- Genetics: A predisposition to OA can be inherited.
- Bone Deformities: Congenital bone or cartilage malformations can elevate your risk.
- Certain Occupations: Physically demanding jobs or roles that require repetitive stress on joints can increase the likelihood of developing OA.
Complications of Osteoarthritis (OA)
For many individuals, OA is a source of chronic pain that can be both exhausting and debilitating. It can also contribute to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
- Adults with arthritis are about 2.5 times more likely to experience a fall or injury.
- In 2015, 15 million U.S. adults reported experiencing severe joint pain due to arthritis.
- Approximately 1 in 25 U.S. adults (ages 18 to 64) cite arthritis as a cause of work limitations.
OA can impact your life in numerous ways beyond just causing pain.
Sleep Disruption
Achy, tender joints can interfere with restful, restorative sleep. Not getting a full night’s sleep can exacerbate pain symptoms. Additionally, stiffness and a limited range of motion can make finding a comfortable sleeping position difficult.
Reduced Productivity
Chronic joint pain often leads to missed workdays each year. OA can also reduce the ability to perform everyday activities such as:
- Household chores
- Cooking
- Getting dressed
- Exercising and other activities
While functionality can generally be improved with treatment, some people with OA may require assistance with simple day-to-day tasks.
Weight Gain
Pain and stiffness associated with OA can significantly reduce your desire to be active, leading you to withdraw from activities that previously brought you joy. Arthritis can diminish your ability to exercise or even walk. This lack of activity not only limits your enjoyment of life but can also cause weight gain.
Gaining extra weight may worsen OA symptoms and increase the risk of other complications, including:
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Heart disease
Anxiety and Depression
A 2010 study investigated the connection between anxiety and depression and OA, revealing that the pain from OA symptoms negatively impacts mental health. The study found that more than 40 percent of participants experienced increased anxiety and depression due to OA symptoms.
Other Complications
Other potential complications arising from OA include:
- Bone death (osteonecrosis)
- Stress fractures
- Bleeding or infection in the joints
- Deterioration of tendons and ligaments around the joints
- Pinched nerves, especially in cases of spinal OA
Treatment Options for Osteoarthritis (OA)
While there is no cure for OA, treatments primarily aim to manage symptoms and improve joint function, flexibility, and balance. These measures are essential for preventing falls that could lead to fractures.
Effectively managing pain while enhancing mobility and joint function is crucial. Here are some key treatment options:
Physical Therapy and Exercise
Physical therapy can help increase mobility. Regular exercise is vital for staying limber and maintaining a healthy weight. However, it’s important not to overuse your joints, as this can exacerbate symptoms. Remember to take frequent breaks during exercise.
Medications
There are several medications available to relieve OA pain, including acetaminophen (Tylenol) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen.
Injections
Corticosteroid injections can be administered directly into the joints to reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Additionally, injections of viscosupplements may provide extra cushioning in the joints.
Surgery
Depending on the severity of your OA, your doctor may suggest surgery to replace entire joints.
Alternative Practices
Incorporating alternative practices can help increase mobility, reduce stress, and improve your overall outlook on life. Some beneficial practices include:
- Tai Chi
- Yoga
- Acupuncture
- Water therapy, such as swimming or exercising in a hot tub
Long-Term Outlook for People with Osteoarthritis (OA)
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that, if left untreated, will progressively worsen over time. Although it is rarely fatal, OA is a significant cause of disability among adults.
If OA is affecting your quality of life, it’s crucial to consult your doctor. Treatment options such as joint replacement surgery, pain medications, and lifestyle changes may be considered.
Regardless of the treatment path you choose, effectively managing your OA symptoms can improve your mobility and enhance your overall quality of life.