Osteoarthritis
OSTEOARTHRITIS (OA) is a most common form of arthritis. Sometimes it is called degenerative joint disease or “wear and tear” arthritis. Occurs most frequently in the hands, hips, and knees
Osteoarthritis stems from the breakdown of joint cartilage between bones, causing discomfort and reduced mobility. Prioritizing preventive measures and informed healthcare choices is crucial for effectively managing its impact on overall well-being.
PATHOPHYSIOLOGY:
[1] Hyaline cartilage provides a smooth, gliding surface for joint motion and acts as a cushion between the bones
[2] In OA, the cartilage breaks down, causing pain, swelling and problems moving the joint
[3]OA worsens over time, bones may break down and develop growths called spurs. Bits of bone or cartilage may flake off and float around in the joint
[4] In the body, an inflammatory process occurs and cytokines (proteins) and enzymes develop that further damage the cartilage. In the final stages of OA, the cartilage wears away and bone rubs against bone leading to joint damage and more pain
Sign & symptoms
Pain and stiffness in the affected joint; exacerbated with activity and relieved by rest
Early morning stiffness; typically, <30 mins
Joint tenderness
Crepitus on movement
Swelling due to osteophyte formation or synovial fluid accumulation
6 Surprising Risk Factors for OsteoArthritis:
Don't Ignore These!
[1] JOINT INJURY OR OVERUSE
Injury or overuse, such as knee bending and repetitive stress on a joint, can damage a joint and increase the risk of OA in that joint
[2] AGE
The risk of developing OA increases with age
[3] AGE
Tenderness or a bump (nodule) in the palm at the base of the affected finger
[4] OBESITY
Extra weight puts more stress on joints, particularly weight-bearing joints like the hips and knees. This stress increases the risk of OA in that joint. Obesity may also have metabolic effects that increase the risk of OA
[5] GENETICS
People who have family members with OA are more likely to develop OA. People who have hand OA are more likely to develop knee OA
[6] RACE
Some Asian populations have lower risk for OA
Osteoarthritis (OA) Treatment
[1] Hot PAck
is use to relax muscles, stimulates blood flow and improves circulation, helps increases range of motion, and reduces stiffness in painful joints
[2] COLD PACK
can reduce inflammation, a major cause of arthritis joint pain and stiffness. Placing a cold pack on a swollen joint can also help bring it back down to size, which will also lessen joint pain.
[3] SOFT TISSUE MANIPULATION (STM)
is to rehydrate connective tissue, stimulate the production of ground substance, assist in orienting of collagen fibers, and break micro adhesion. The result is improved soft tissue mobility, reduced stress on pain sensitive structures, and better function.
[4] KNEE JOINT TRACTION THERAPY
results in muscle relaxation, stimulation of dynamic muscle contractions, and inhibition of protective muscle reflections, all of which are instrumental in decreasing pain. Moreover, the increase in knee joint space due to continuous knee joint traction also helps reduce pain.
[5] EXERCISE (STRETCHING AND STRENGTHENING EXERCISE)
can strengthen the muscles that support your knee joint. Having stronger muscles can reduce the impact and stress on your knee, and help your knee joint move more easily.
[6] PATIENT EDUCATION
has been shown to be effective in decreasing pain and improving activity in patients with osteoarthritis. Patient education should be individualized to the patient, focus on the latest effective treatments, and emphasize those treatments that can be self-managed by the patient.
