Osteoarthritis - Common Causes Behind It!

Osteoarthritis is a common joint disorder that primarily affects elderly and middle aged people. It affects the cartilage and the entire joint as well as the ligaments, bones and the lining of the joints. The cartilage breaks down gradually and the ligaments and tendons deteriorate. Inflammation of the joint lining or the synovial membrane is also very common. Most patients won’t need replacement surgery for their joins despite the changes being irreversible in the joints. Symptoms can differ greatly among patients of osteoarthritis. Proper treatment is required and a orthopaedic can prescribe the appropriate course of actions after detecting this condition. Improved functionality and pain reduction is the treatment goal in OA. If undetected, it can be quite debilitating.

No treatment is available as of now for reversing the damage done. For reversing or slowing the damage on the joints, research is being done. Exercise is essential for improving function and reducing pain. The big toe, knees, hips, spine and joints get affected in this kind of arthritis.

Causes for Osteoarthritis
Older people are the worst hit by OA. Some treatments aim at slowing the progression of the disease even though there hasn’t been any cure for it so far. Both sexes and races are equally affected by OA. People over the age of 40 are more susceptible to this condition. Other risk factors that might bring an earlier onset of OA are:
1. Obesity
2. Hereditary factors
3. Deformed joints such as bow legs and unequal length of legs
4. Repetitive use of joints
5. Trauma. 

If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult an Orthopedist.