It is a joint disease characterized by the wear and tear of the cartilage tissue in the joints over time. Cartilage in the joints facilitates movements by allowing the joint surfaces to glide smoothly over each other. It also protects the joint from impacts. osteoarthritis As it develops, the cartilage becomes thinner and wears out over time. This causes bones to rub against each other and joint damage.
What Causes Osteoarthritis?
It is a chronic condition that occurs when joint cartilage wears away over time. There are several factors that contribute to the development of this disease, and the combination of these factors may vary from person to person.
As we age, joint cartilage naturally weakens and wears out. It is more common in older individuals because cartilage tissue becomes thinner over time and its ability to repair decreases. Joints that are under constant stress and heavy loads are at greater risk of wear, especially due to work or sports activities. This can cause cartilage to melt and develop over time.
Excess body weight creates extra load on weight-bearing joints such as legs and hips, increasing the risk of these joints. Even excess weight in the abdominal area can put extra pressure on the spine and knees. Some people may be genetically predisposed to this condition. Genetic factors can affect the quality of cartilage and joint structure.
Injuries to the joint or previous surgeries can trigger its development. Metabolic diseases such as diabetes and gout can also affect joints and increase the risk. Chronic inflammation can accelerate the wear and tear of joint cartilage and contribute to its development.
These factors indicate that it is a multifactorial disease and needs to be managed in a variety of ways. Being aware of and managing risk factors can help slow its progression.
What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?
It is a common joint disease characterized by the wear and tear of the cartilage tissue in the joints. This condition can cause various symptoms in the joints.
- osteoarthritis Patients often experience constant pain in the affected joints. This pain may be exacerbated when using the joint or bearing weight and usually subsides after inactivity.
- Affected joints often experience stiffness in the morning or after prolonged inactivity. This stiffness usually decreases somewhat with movement, but may persist throughout the day.
- It can restrict joint movements. This condition can make it difficult to do daily activities and reduce quality of life.
- Cracking or grinding noises when moving the affected joint may be a symptom. These sounds occur when the cartilage surfaces cease to be smooth and begin to rub.
- Swelling may occur in the joint due to inflammation and fluid accumulation. This swelling can increase pain and stiffness in the joint.
- In advanced cases, joints may lose their normal shape and deformation may occur. This may be especially evident in weight-bearing joints such as the hands, knees, and hips.
- A slight increase in temperature may be felt in the affected joint area. This may also be a sign of mild inflammation in the area.
It is a progressive disease and symptoms may worsen over time. Early diagnosis and treatment helps slow the progression of the disease and preserve quality of life.
Osteoarthritis Treatment
osteoarthritisIt is a chronic disease characterized by the wear and tear of cartilage in the joints. There is currently no completely curable treatment. However, current treatments focus on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life.
Regular physical activity supports joint health and increases joint mobility. Low-impact exercises such as swimming and cycling are recommended. Excess weight puts extra pressure on weight-bearing joints, especially knees and hips. Losing weight can relieve pain and stiffness by reducing the load on the joint.
Simple painkillers such as paracetamol can be used for mild pain. Medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen are commonly prescribed to relieve pain and inflammation. Pain relief creams applied directly to the joint area can help relieve pain locally.
The physical therapist applies specific exercises and therapy to increase joint function and reduce pain. Heat can help reduce stiffness and cold packs can help relieve inflammation and pain. Corticosteroid injections provide temporary relief from severe pain and inflammation.
Hyaluronic acid injections are used specifically for the knee. It mimics hyaluronic acid, one of the natural components of joint cartilage. Arthroscopy, this procedure performed through small incisions, can remove damaged cartilage pieces.
Osteotomy, bones are reshaped. It is a surgical procedure performed to redistribute the load on the joints. Joint Replacement, in advanced cases, the damaged joint is replaced with parts.
osteoarthritis A multidisciplinary approach is essential in its treatment. The treatment plan should be customized based on the patient's lifestyle, pain level, and general health. The effectiveness of treatment options may vary from patient to patient.
