Osteoarthritis

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Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis

Definition

There are over 100 different types of arthritis conditions, but osteoarthritis (OA) is among the most common. This joint disorder can happen anywhere in the body including the hands, hips, and even spine. Osteoarthritis is classified as a degenerative joint disease, meaning that the cartilage in the joints will break down over time. OA typically affects people aged 65 or older, but it is possible for younger adults to be diagnosed as well.

Causes

The exact cause of osteoarthritis is not yet known. However, we do know that heredity is a common factor. Osteoarthritis may be passed on through generations, so it is important to look at family history while diagnosing the condition. However, secondary osteoarthritis can be caused by an injury that resulted in inflammation of the joint. This is often the case with fractures and torn tissues, but it can result from surgery as well. Genetics and injuries are among the top risk factors for developing OA, but the physicians at Tulsa Pain have also noted a relationship between osteoarthritis and weight. Research suggests that extra weight may cause cartilage to break down at a higher rate than those at a healthy weight.

Symptoms

Because osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease, patients may not feel any pain in their joints at first. When pain does begin to occur, it may start out slowly at first, usually causing stiffness in the morning. Eventually, pain and swelling can become more consistent as the degeneration progresses. Patients may feel a “grating” or grinding sensation, paired with clicking in the joints. Unlike other forms of arthritis, osteoarthritis does not cause physiological changes like increased body temperature. Additional symptoms may include limited mobility and loss of range of motion.

Treatments

While there is no cure for the condition, there are many ways the physicians at Tulsa Pain can help osteoarthritis patients regain their range of motion and reduce their pain. One way to achieve this is through physical activity. Physical activity is known to increase blood flow to the diseased area, which may help relieve pain. Exercise also releases endorphins that may provide a pain-reducing effect. However, one of the biggest benefits of physical activity for osteoarthritis patients is that it helps keep off excess weight that could be putting pressure on the joints. Low-impact sports like biking or swimming are great choices, as they are easier on the joints.

If medication, exercise, and other therapies are not doing enough to treat pain, Tulsa Pain offers steroid injections that can be administered directly into the joint. This method combines anesthestic and a steroid solution that can soothe any inflammation caused by osteoarthritis.

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