Osteoarthritis

Most common form of arthritis. It is a degenerative disease which involves joint inflammation and worsens over time. 

CAUSES

• OA is caused by joint damage orjoint injury
• Wear and tear with age
• Formation of bone spurs
• Narrowing of joint space
• Previously dislocated joints

SYMPTOMS

• Painful movements
• Joint stiffness
• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Decreased joint movement
• Warm joint

STAGES

STAGE 0

• Normal joint health
• No signs of joint damage

STAGE 1

• Minor
• Painful movements
• Discomfort during physical activity
• Slight bone spur growth

STAGE 2

• Mild
• Painful joint
• Joint stiffness
• Increased bone spur growth
• Normal bone spacing

STAGE 3

• Moderate
• Further bone spur growth
• Destruction of cartilage surface
• Narrowing of bone space

STAGE 4

• Severe
• Breakdown of cartilage
• Increased stiffness
• Reduced bone space
• Painful physical activity

RISK FACTORS

• Risk of arthritis increases with age
• Women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis
• Extra body weight creates more stress on joints
• Joint injuries (sports injuries, accidents etc.)
• Bone deformities
• Diabetes mellitus

ASSESSMENT & DIAGNOSIS

• History
• Physical examination
• X-rays
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

PREVENTION

Lifestyle measures; weight management by doing physical activity and healthy diet.

ELECTROTHERAPY

• Heat therapy
• Cold therapy
• TENS
• Therapeutic ultrasound

ASSISTIVE DEVICES

• Splints
• Mobility aids

EXERCISE THERAPY

• Stretching exercises
• Strengthening exercises
• Isometrics

MANUAL THERAPY

• Mobilization techniques
• Joint glides
• Manipulation

MEDICAL TREATMENT

• NSAIDS (non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs)
• Corticosteroid injection
• PRP (plasma rich protein)