Osteoarthrosis

How to treat osteoarthritis

About

When two bones come together, it is called a joint. The bones have a protective covering over it of tissue called cartilage. With osteoarthritis, the cartilage breaks down that leads the bones to run together. This can cause pain and stiffness in the joint.

Osteoarthritis affects more than 30 million men and women in the United States. [1]

- It requires a medical diagnosis.
- Lab tests or imaging such as X-ray and MRI scan are often required.
- It is a chronic condition that can last for years or be lifelong.
- Other diagnostic tests such as blood test may be required.
Osteoarthritis usually occurs in older people but it can occur in adults of any age. Joint damage can accumulate over time and that is why people with old age are more likely to have osteoarthritis. Other causes of joint damage are torn, cartilage, dislocated joints, and ligament injuries.

Symptoms

- Pain
- Tenderness
- Inflammation around the joint
- Discomfort in pressing the area with fingers
- Stiffness more noticeable when the patient wakes up in the morning or after a long period of inactivity
- Loss of flexibility
- May feel a grating sensation when moving the joint

Treatment

Self-Care:
- Exercising regularly for about 20–30 minutes can help in relieving stress.
- Extra weight can put a strain on joints and can cause pain. Losing this extra weight can help in reducing pain.

Medication: Doctors may prescribe you pain relievers to reduce pain and inflammation.

Specialist: A specialist might recommend specific exercises to improve the condition. Contact mfine to get the best treatment for various health conditions.