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)
