Osteoarthritis Symptoms

The ends of the bones in the joints are cushioned by cartilage. This very cushion tends to deteriorate over time, becoming rough and causing irritation. As this process of wear down continues, it may result in bone rubbing on bone, which may eventually repercuss in damaged bones and joint pain. This condition is what is referred to as the osteoarthritis. It is also known as osteoarthrosis, or degenerative joint disease. This ailment is known to have its effect on any joint in the body, joints of the hands, hip, knees, neck and lower back, being the common ones.

What Indicates Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis deteriorate over time, meaning, its symptoms go on worsening. Symptoms are common with any kind of affected joint. The most prominent symptom to take a notice of is, a pain that may occur during, or post, movement. The affected person may have the feeling of tenderness upon applying pressure to the affected joint. Another common symptom is the feeling of stiffness, after a period of inactivity, especially after waking up in the morning. It is also common to see among osteoarthritis patients that they become unable to use the full range of motion to move their joints. Feeling or hearing a grating sensation when joints are used, could also be a certain symptom of the development of this condition. Also, osteoarthritis causes the accumulation of bone spurs around the affected joint, which may be felt as hard lumps.

Apart from the above ones, experiencing other symptoms such as tarry stools, nausea, constipation, drowsiness and discomfort in the abdominal area, can be a good reason the patient must visit a doctor.

What Causes the Condition?

As it has been cited above, the deterioration of the cartilage that serves as a cushion for the bones, causes the onset of this condition. Now, what causes this wear down of the cartilage is still unknown and undetermined. However, experts have their say that aging, injury to the joints, heredity factors, weakness in muscles and obesity could be the most possible causes.

What is its Treatment?

Osteoarthritis symptoms, if not managed, can greatly interfere with one's daily activities. And, as there is no cure for the condition, the best can be done is to reduce the pain and improve joint movements. In the treatment, medicines that are commonly prescribed consist of acetaminophen (pain reliever), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (for reducing pain and inflammation), and tramadol (analgesic drug). Severe pain can be dealt with stronger prescription pain killers, and so do shots of corticosteroid medications.

Apart from medication, patients may also benefit from taking up dedicated exercise programs, follow measures to reduce stress on joints, and using braces or shoe inserts. In some places, you may also get yourself enrolled in classes which are dedicated to teaching people to manage the chronic pain of the osteoarthritis. For some cases, patients may even require the aid of surgery.

There are few things people with osteoarthritis can do at home, to make themselves comfortable. The must take rest, do the recommended exercises, manage weight, and use heating pad to relieve stiffness and ice packs to reduce muscle spasms. OTS creams or ointments can also help in dealing with the pain for sometime. Also, it is wise to use assistive devices like a walker or walking stick.