Osteoarthritis, commonly known as “Haddiyon ka ghoosna” in India, is a condition that affects your joints, causing pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving. It’s the most common type of arthritis, particularly affecting knees, hips, hands, and spine. Thankfully, with proper management, you can lead an active and fulfilling life even with osteoarthritis.

What is Osteoarthritis?

Imagine your joints as hinges lined with smooth cartilage, acting like a cushion for easy movement. In osteoarthritis, this cartilage gradually wears down, causing the underlying bones to rub against each other, leading to pain and discomfort.

Types of Osteoarthritis:

• Primary Osteoarthritis: This is the most common type, mainly affecting individuals older than 50 due to natural wear and tear of joints.
• Secondary Osteoarthritis: This type can occur due to injuries, joint overuse, or other health conditions like obesity or diabetes.

How Common is Osteoarthritis?

In India, around 25% of people above 50 years are estimated to have osteoarthritis, with knee and hip joints being the most affected. It can impact anyone, regardless of age or activity level.

Symptoms and Causes:

     Symptoms:

• Pain, especially during activity and improving with rest
• Stiffness, particularly in the mornings or after periods of inactivity
• Swelling and tenderness around the affected joint
• Reduced range of motion, making it difficult to bend or straighten the joint fully
• Cracking or grinding sounds with movement

     Causes:

• Age-related cartilage wear and tear
• Joint injuries and overuse
• Obesity putting extra strain on joints
• Family history increasing susceptibility
• Other conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis

Osteoarthritis Risk Factors:

• Age (older than 50)
• Family history
• Obesity
• Repetitive joint strain due to occupation or sports
• Previous joint injuries

Diagnosis and Tests:

A doctor will diagnose osteoarthritis based on your symptoms, a physical examination, and possibly X-rays or other imaging tests. Early diagnosis is crucial for managing the condition effectively.

How is Osteoarthritis Treated?

While there’s no cure for osteoarthritis, you can manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life through various treatments:

• Pain management: Medication, heat therapy, ice packs, and other pain relief options.
• Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and protect joints.
• Weight management: Losing weight can significantly reduce pressure on joints.
• Joint support aids: Braces or splints can stabilize joints and lessen pain.
• Lifestyle changes: Reducing activities that exacerbate pain and adopting healthy habits like regular exercise and a balanced diet.

Prevention:

While complete prevention is difficult, you can reduce your risk of osteoarthritis by:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Exercising regularly, focusing on low-impact activities like swimming or walking
• Avoiding high-impact activities that strain joints
• Protecting your joints from injuries
• Managing pre-existing conditions like diabetes

Outlook / Prognosis:

Living with osteoarthritis is manageable with proper care. Early diagnosis and treatment can slow progression and improve your quality of life. Most people can lead active lives with the right combination of therapy and lifestyle changes.

Living With:

• Adapt your activities: Modify or avoid activities that worsen pain, and find low-impact alternatives you enjoy.
• Stay active: Regular exercise, even gentle movements, can keep your joints flexible and strong.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Losing weight can significantly reduce pressure on your joints and improve mobility.
• Use assistive devices: Canes, walkers, or braces can offer additional support and stability.
• Connect with support groups: Sharing experiences and learning from others can be helpful and encouraging.

When should I see my healthcare provider?

• If you experience persistent joint pain, especially in weight-bearing joints like knees or hips.
• If your joint pain starts interfering with your daily activities or sleep.
• If you notice swelling, redness, or warmth around a joint.
• If over-the-counter pain relievers don’t provide adequate relief.

What questions should I ask my doctor?

• What type of osteoarthritis do I have?
• What treatment options are available for me?
• What can I do to manage my pain at home?
• What exercises are safe and beneficial for me?
• Do I need surgery?
• Are there any support groups or resources available?

Additional Common Questions:

At what age does osteoarthritis usually start?

While osteoarthritis primarily affects individuals over 50 due to natural cartilage wear and tear, it can occur at any age, even in younger adults due to injuries, joint overuse, or certain medical conditions. Remember, early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing the condition effectively, regardless of your age.

Is there a cure for osteoarthritis?

Unfortunately, there’s no known cure for osteoarthritis. However, with proper management through a combination of therapies and lifestyle changes, you can significantly slow the progression of the disease, manage pain, and maintain an active and fulfilling life.

What Ayurvedic or traditional Indian remedies can help with osteoarthritis?

While there’s no scientific evidence to definitively prove the effectiveness of Ayurvedic or traditional Indian remedies for treating osteoarthritis, some practices like turmeric, yoga, and warm oil massages might offer pain relief and improve joint function. It’s important to consult your doctor before incorporating any alternative therapies into your treatment plan to ensure safety and potential interaction with your existing medications.

Are there any new treatments on the horizon for osteoarthritis?

Yes, researchers are actively exploring various new treatment avenues, including stem cell therapy, gene therapy, and minimally invasive surgical techniques. While these are still in development and not widely available, they hold promise for future advancements in managing osteoarthritis effectively.

Remember, managing osteoarthritis is a journey, not a destination. With the right information, proactive care, and a positive attitude, you can navigate this condition effectively and continue living a life you love.