Osteoarthritis is considered a common form of arthritis. It is commonly understood as normal wear and tear of the bones, but the truth is it is beyond normal wear and tear. It can significantly impact a person’s ability to be involved in social activities and the community. So, it is beyond just arthritis and causes severe problems. 

If you want to know more about osteoarthritis, then you are at the right place. In this article, we will understand everything about this issue and how you can solve it. However, if you want to know more about it, then it would be better to consult an expert doctor such as Tucson Podiatrist, who can help you know in detail about the arthritis issues. 

What is Osteoarthritis? 

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common form of arthritis that happens when the cartilage that lines the joints is worn down. If the cartilage is damaged or when your bones are rubbed with each other, then it can affect the joints. It is mainly developed in people over the age of 45; however, sometimes, it is also seen among younger people. This arthritis affects the weight-bearing joints such as knees, feet, spine, and hips. It can also be seen in the joints of the hand, neck, and lower back. 

What are the Causes and Risk Factors of Osteoarthritis? 

If we talk about the causes of OA, then there can be various reasons for it. Some of the common reasons can be as follows. 

• Age is an essential factor because as we age, the risk of joint problems increases. Thus, the risk of OA also increases. People who are older than 45 are more at risk of this problem. 
• If you are overweight or obese, then it can cause problems with OA. This is because it puts pressure on the joints, rubs against each other a lot, and causes the breaking of cartilage. 
• In some cases, genetics also plays a significant role in the breakdown of cartilage. You inherit the genes that cannot keep the cartilage strong and thus develop OA. 
• Other conditions that can affect osteoarthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout, damage the joints and lead to severe problems. 
• If repeated movements of a particular body part occur, they can also lead to OA. Some repeated movements, such as constant kneeling, lifting heavy loads, squatting, and others, can rib bones, ultimately leading to OA. 
• Trauma or injury is also one of the significant causes of OA in a body. 

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Osteoarthritis? 

There are common signs of OA that we can understand easily and seek proper medical consultation. If you experience joint pain, stiffness, swelling, grinding, rubbing, crunching sensations, or muscle weakness, then it is time to consult an expert doctor and seek proper treatment for your problem as soon as possible. 

How is the Diagnosis of Osteoarthritis? 

When you visit a doctor for the diagnosis of your problem, then, they will conduct various tests to understand the actual issue and its reasons. So, for OA, too, there will be certain issues such as physical exams and imaging tests. You have to tell them everything about your symptoms and pain so that they can recognize it quickly. Additionally, there will be other tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans that will help them find the root cause of the problem.

How is the Treatment of Osteoarthritis? 

Your healthcare provider will assess the condition and provide medications for the problem. There are over-the-counter medicines that doctors would recommend to reduce pain and inflammation. Additionally, there are some exercises that you have to practice daily to ensure that proper body movements are performed to help your muscles and joints. In some cases, supportive devices are given to stabilize the joints. Heat and cold therapies are also given to the affected joints, which help relieve stiffness and pain in the body.