What is Osteoarthritis?
 By Sherry Mace, M.S., F.N.P.c.
Recreational activities such as hiking, biking and simply walking are valued by many people. However, an active lifestyle can be something people sometimes take for granted. For many, these activities are not possible due to joint pain caused by osteoarthritis (OA), a degenerative joint disease and the most common form of arthritis.
Fortunately, there is help for people who suffer from OA.
A joint normally has a smooth, slippery surface on the ends of the bone called cartilage. This cartilage helps the bones glide smoothly with movement. In the early stages of OA, the cartilage starts to wear away. This results in swelling and deformity in the joint and eventually affects the bone, joint capsule, muscles and ligaments. While OA can occur in any joint in the body, it typically occurs in the hands, knees, hips and spine.
The cause of OA is unknown but scientists believe that joint injury, stress on the joint, family history and excess weight can contribute to this condition. OA occurs most often in older people. Younger people who have had joint injuries also can develop this form of arthritis.
Pain and decreased function usually are the first symptoms of OA. Gradually, other symptoms like swelling, joint deformity, grinding, clicking, morning stiffness lasting less than 30 minutes and feelings of instability may develop. This usually prompts a visit to a primary care provider where a physical examination and X-ray will be done. Sometimes, blood tests and joint fluid are checked to rule out other types of arthritis.
There are many treatment options, all of which take a person’s lifestyle and health into consideration. Some of the goals of treatment are to achieve a healthy lifestyle through weight management and rest periods for the joint. Exercise and medications also are used extensively to help improve the symptoms of OA. Occasionally, surgery is needed to correct the problem. The surgical procedures most often used are joint arthroscopy to clean up the damaged cartilage, and total joint replacement to replace the entire joint surface.
OA pain strikes approximately 11 percent of people over the age 64. OA is a treatable condition, yet there are many in our community still suffering every day. Treatment options are numerous and a primary care provider can help patients choose which one is right for them. The sooner a person makes an appointment to take control of their OA, the sooner they can get back on the road or trail.
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