Information From Your Health Care Provider

OSTEOARTHRITIS

(Degenerative Joint Disease)

Basic information

description

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the gradual deterioration (degeneration) of cartilage in a joint. It is most common in weight-bearing joints (feet, ankles, knees, hips). It also affects fingers, wrists, shoulders, and spine. The cartilage normally forms a soft protective layer at the ends of bones at a joint. When the cartilage deteriorates, it allows the bones to rub together. This causes the pain and limited movement. It can occur at any age, but is more likely in adults over age 45. It is the most common type of arthritis and can lead to disability.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Joint stiffness and pain, including backache. Weather changes, such as cold and damp, may increase aching.
Joints have limited movement and less flexibility.
No redness, heat, or fever in affected joints (usually).
May have swelling of affected joints, such as fingers.
May have cracking or grating sounds in joints.

causes

Why it occurs is unclear. There is no single cause. Biologic, mechanical, hereditary, trauma, or congenital factors are involved.

risk increases with

Age over 50 and females more than males.
Obesity; joint injury; overuse or weakness of muscles.
Family history of osteoarthritis.
Having other bone or joint disease.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

None specific. To reduce risk, maintain normal weight for height and body structure. Be physically active, but avoid activities that lead to joint injury, especially after age 40. Try regular stretching or yoga exercises.

expected outcomes

There is no cure and the disorder can slowly worsen with time. Treatment can help control pain symptoms and help maintain function.

possible complications

Symptoms can lead to limits in daily activities, affect the ability to work, bring on stress and depression, and restrict social and recreational activities.
Drugs used in treatment can have adverse effects.

diagnosis & treatment

general measures

Your health care provider will do a physical exam and ask questions about your symptoms and activities. Medical tests can include blood and joint fluid studies, x-rays, or MRI.
Treatment goals are to control pain, slow progression of the disorder, and improve mobility and function.
Treatment may include lifestyle changes, self-care steps, drug therapy, and more rarely, surgery.
Lifestyle changes may involve diet (to achieve healthy weight), exercises, and/or using mechanical aids.
Mechanical aids can include: shock-absorbing or orthopedic shoes, canes, crutches, or walkers. They may include splints, braces, or elastic supports to help joints; neck brace, collar, or corset to help back pain.
Heat can ease discomfort or pain. Use heating pads or warm soaks several times a day for 10 minutes at a time.
Cold can help reduce swelling and inflammation. Use an ice pack several times a day for 20 to 30 minutes.
Acupuncture may help some people.
Surgery for osteoarthritis may be recommended for some patients. There are different options.
To learn more: Arthritis Foundation, local chapter, or contact them at PO Box 7669, Atlanta, GA 30357-0669; (800) 283-7800; website: www.arthritis.org.

medications

Self-care for pain:
- Nonprescription topical pain creams/gels.
- Acetaminophen for mild to moderate pain.
- NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) for pain and inflammation.
- Get medical advice about other supplements.
Stronger oral pain relievers or cortisone injections into joints may be prescribed.
Artificial joint fluid injections may be recommended.
Other drugs may be prescribed as needed.

activity

Exercise is beneficial. Your health care provider can advise you about an exercise program. Swimming or water aerobics are good. They don't stress the joints.
Physical therapy may be prescribed to help maintain muscle strength and joint function.