ARE YOU ONE
IN 43 MILLION WITH OSTEOARTHRITIS?
June, 2002, Warrenville, IL - Forty-three
million people in the United States have some form of
arthritis and it is a major cause of disability for many
people. Arthritis literally means "inflammation of
the joint." There are many different kinds of arthritis;
the most common type is osteoarthritis (OA). OA is a disease
that develops slowly over time, whereby the cartilage
covering the bone ends gradually wears away. The joint
becomes inflammed, causeing pain and swelling. When osteoarthritis
affects the weightbearing joints, such as the knee, hip
and spine, it can be very painful.
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
The major symptom of OA is pain, which usually develops
gradually, but can occur suddenly as well. The joint may
become stiff and swollen, making it difficult to bend.
Pain and swelling are generally worse in the morning.
Pain may also increase after strenuous exercise, which
may get better with rest.
Treatment of Osteoarthritis
In the early stages of OA:
-
Lifestyle modifications may help,
such as losing excess weight, moderate exercise such
as swimming or cycling, and minimizing activities that
aggravate the condition.
-
Supportive devices such as a cane,
brace or special shoes may also help.
-
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory
medications, including aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen,
may help reduce swelling in the joints.
-
Prescription medications and supplements
are available to relieve pain.
Benefits
of Physical Exercise
Research indicates that aerobic and
resistance exercise can be an effective strategy for preventing
disability in older persons with knee osteoarthritis.
Surgical Options
If osteoarthritis does not respond to non-operative treatments,
surgery may be needed. There are many surgical options
that can be considered. One of the newest surgical interventions
for arthritis is the metal knee spacer. People that might
benefit from this type of surgical technique are people
with isolated arthritis on the inside or medial part of
the knee. There are also new minimally invasive total
hip surgery and total knee arthroplasty.
| This information has been provided by
OAD Orthopaedics, Ltd. The
author of this article is David M. Mochel, M.D., orthopaedic
surgeon with OAD Orthopaedics, Ltd.
Dr. Mochel has special expertise in adult reconstructive
and total joint replacement surgery, arthroscopic
surgery, fracture care and disorders of the foot and
ankle. For more information, call (630) 225-BONE(2663). |
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