What is osteoarthritis?

What is osteoarthritis?

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Osteoarthritis is a chronic degenerative joint disease and the most common form of arthritis. It is extremely prevalent among individuals over 40 years of age and is characterized by degenerative changes in the bone and cartilage in one or more joints leading to joint destruction, pain, swelling, and stiffness. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body and may present differently depending on the joint involved. It may affect the joints in the hands and fingers, hips, knees, feet, toes and even the spine.  

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Common symptoms of osteoarthritis

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The symptoms of osteoarthritis can vary depending on the affected joint, but commonly include:

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1. Joint pain: The most prominent symptom is joint pain, it is initially episodic and triggered by specific activity. In later stages, pain becomes a chronic, dull ache accentuated with episodic severe pain. 
2. Joint stiffness: It usually occurs first thing in the morning and after prolonged periods of inactivity, but this stiffness typically does not last more than 30 minutes, nor is it generalized to the entire body. 
3. Crepitus/Grating Sensation: It is a common symptom in osteoarthritis and may progress from painless grating sensation to an extremely painful, high pitched sound as a result of bone to bone contact.
4. Limited range of motion: Osteoarthritis can lead to a decreased range of motion in the affected joint, making it challenging to fully bend, straighten, or rotate the joint.
5. Joint swelling: In some cases, the affected joint may become swollen or appear larger than usual. The swelling is typically a result of soft tissue inflammation  around the joint.
6. Joint instability: As osteoarthritis progresses, the affected joint may feel less stable and more prone to buckling or giving way.

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What causes osteoarthritis?

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Causes and risk factors for osteoarthritis include:

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1. Aging: The risk of developing osteoarthritis increases with age, but aging on its own does not cause osteoarthritis nor should osteoarthritis be considered synonymous with a “normal” aging process. 
2. Gender: Studies show that women are more likely to be affected by osteoarthritis than men after age 50.
3. Joint injury or trauma: Trauma before adulthood may initiate remodeling of bone that alters joint mechanics and nutrition in a way that becomes problematic only in later life. 
4. Repetitive stress (occupation): Occupational activities such as jobs that require kneeling and squatting with heavy lifting leads to repetitive microtrauma and are associated with the development of osteoarthritis. 
5. Genetics: Certain genetic factors may contribute to an individual's susceptibility to developing osteoarthritis. People with family members who have osteoarthritis may be at a higher risk.
6. Obesity: It has been shown to be a risk factor for the development of osteoarthritis in later life. Excess body weight puts additional stress on weight-bearing joints; most evident in the knee joint and to a lesser extent in the hip and hands. 
7. Joint deformities or malalignments: Structural abnormalities or conditions that affect joint alignment, such as bowlegs or unequal leg length, are associated with greater prevalence of knee and hip osteoarthritis, respectively. 

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How can physical therapy help? 

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Joint destruction and irreversible damage are most pronounced early in the disease course. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, improving joint function, and enhancing quality of life. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the management of osteoarthritis and may include the following:

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1. Pain management: Physical therapists can employ various techniques to help reduce pain, such as heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, taping, use of splints, assistive devices, activity modification and manual therapy techniques
2. Stretching and joint mobilization exercises: Specific stretching and joint mobilization exercises are prescribed to improve joint mobility and counteract the developing restrictions. 
3. Strengthening exercises: Weak muscles may add to the joint dysfunction. Strengthening the muscles around the affected joint can help provide better support and stability to the joint, reducing pain and improving function.
4. Aerobic exercises:  Physical therapists also prescribe exercises designed to improve cardiopulmonary function. The exercise must have a low impact on the joints, such as walking, biking or swimming. 
5. Assistive/Adaptive devices: With the progression of the disease, functional activities become more difficult. Physical therapists can recommend and educate individuals on the use of assistive or adaptive devices, such as raised toilet seat, cane, or walker may be needed to decrease painful stresses and maintain function. 
6. Education and self-management strategies: Physical therapists provide education about the disease of osteoarthritis, how to protect the joints while remaining active, and how to manage the symptoms. They also instruct the patient in a home program of safe exercises to improve muscle performance, range of motion and endurance. 

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It's important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or physical therapist, for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan for osteoarthritis. The treatment approach may be tailored to the individual's specific needs and can involve a multidisciplinary approach involving healthcare providers from various disciplines.

Trust PeteHealth for osteoarthritis treatment

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Finally – the all-in-one, professional, convenient approach to physical therapy that you deserve with PeteHealth.

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