Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease, is the most common form of arthritis. It is a “wear and tear” arthritis that in varying degrees affects almost everyone as they grow older. Osteoarthritis most frequently occurs in weight-bearing joints – mainly knees, hips and ankles where it slowly, gradually breaks down cartilage.
In healthy knees and hips, a smooth, slippery surface, called cartilage, covers the ends of bones, creating a natural cushion between joints, and acts as a smooth-surfaced shock absorber. With the onset of osteoarthritis, the smooth surface becomes rough and pitted. In advanced stages, it may wear away completely. Without this normal gliding surface, swelling and deformity in the joint results and eventually affects the bone, joint capsule, muscles and ligaments. The bones grind against each other causing inflammation, pain and restricted movement.
In osteoarthritis of the knee, the actual shape of the bone and appearance of the leg may change over the years. Many people become bowlegged or knock-kneed. In osteoarthritis of the hip, the affected leg may appear shorter.
Symptoms
The number one symptom is pain. The pain is caused by irritation and pressure on nerve endings. Muscle tension and fatigue also are contributors. The pain can progress from mild soreness and aching with movement, to severe pain even when resting. The second symptom is loss of moving easily. Bending or rising becomes difficult, and morning stiffness is a problem. In turn, lack of mobility often causes the muscles supporting the knee or hip to weaken. Eventually, overall body coordination suffers.
Cause
The cause of osteoarthritis is unknown, but scientists believe that joint injury, stress on the joint, family history and excess weight can contribute to this condition. Osteoarthritis most often occurs in older individuals; however, younger people who have had joint injuries also can develop this form of arthritis.
Diagnosis
A simple weight bearing x-ray and examination by a skilled orthopaedic physician will determine if osteoarthritis is present. Sometimes, blood tests and joint fluid are checked to rule out other types of arthritis.
Treatment Options
There are many treatment options, all of which take a person’s health and lifestyle into consideration. Some of the goals of treatment are to achieve a healthy lifestyle through weight management and rest periods for the joint. Exercise, medications and ice packs also may be used to help improve symptoms.
When medication, ice packs, and exercise have done all they can do, knee replacement and hip replacement can be a very positive solution to the pain and disability of advanced osteoarthritis. The replacement surgery removes rough, worn surfaces of the joint and replaces them with smooth-surfaced metal and/or plastic components. This allows the joint to regain its normal function, relieves pain and improves mobility of the joint.
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