Osteoarthritis
What is Osteoarthritis?
In Ireland approximately 400,000 people have osteoarthritis, while in the UK around 8 million people are affected.
Osteoarthritis was formerly called 'degenerative joint disease'. 'Osteo' means bone and 'Arthritis' means joint damage and inflammation.
When osteoarthritis affects the joint, the cartilage becomes damaged and thin. The body tries to repair itself, so the bone underneath becomes thicker and changes shape. The bone at the edge of the joint sometimes begins to grow outwards and bony spurs or osteophytes can form. This damage can often cause the onset of symptoms.
What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?
Symptoms of osteoarthritis tend to appear gradually. They often range in severity from person to person from mild to severe. The symptoms may include:
- Pain and stiffness in the affected joint
- Loss of function in the affected joint
- Cracking or creaking of the joints when moving
- Joints may become enlarged and deformed
- Joints may give way or become unstable
Causes of osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis can be classified as either primary or secondary. The cause of primary osteoarthritis is not clear, however there are some risk factors associated with the condition, including:
- Age
- Being overweight or obese
- Joint injury or overuse
- Genetics
Secondary osteoarthritis may be associated with a number of different causes including:
- Previous injury to the joint
- Joint abnormalities from birth
- Other conditions which can alter the structure and function of cartilage (e.g. Rheumatoid Arthritis, Gout)
Management of osteoarthritis symptoms
When treating osteoarthritis the aim is to:
- Reduce the symptoms
- Maintain the joint's flexibility
- Maintain function and stop the condition from worsening
Treating osteoarthritis may involve:
- Reducing stress on affected joints
- Activity and exercise
- Painkillers
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- Supplements such as glucosamine
In more serious cases:
- A steroid or hyaluronan injection for very painful osteoarthritis
- Surgery
Osteoarthritis is a long-term disease, which can be managed. It is however important that you listen to the advice of your doctor, particularly when taking your medication.