Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is inflammation of the joint that results from cartilage degeneration. It features the breakdown and eventual loss of the cartilage of one or more joints. It is one of the common types of Arthritis.

Why Osteoarthritis occurs?

Causes are-
  • Natural aging of the joint
  • The water content of the cartilage increases
  • Loss of the cartilage cushion
  • Genetic
  • Obesity
  • Gout
  • Diabetes Mellitus
  • Repeated trauma or surgery to the joint structures
  • Abnormal joints at birth (congenital abnormalities)
  • Other hormone disorders

What are the Signs and Symptoms?
  • Pain in the affected joints that gets worse by movement
  • Joints that can be affected are- fingers and hands, hip, knees, and spine
  • Swelling, warmth, and creaking of the affected joints
  • Knobby growths on the joints of the fingers
  • After long periods of inactivity, pain, and stiffness of the joints
  • Friction between bones, causing pain even at rest or pain with limited motion (in severe cases)

What can happen if it left untreated?

Conditions become worsen with time. Joint pain and stiffness may become severe. Some people are no longer able to work. In some cases, joint replacement surgery is required.
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