The most common type of arthritis, osteoarthritis affects millions of people worldwide. Cartilage is the tissue that is found at the end of bones, providing them with a cushion so that move freely against each other. In the case of osteoarthritis, this coating wears down because of which the bones are no longer able to move as freely as earlier. Although each and every joint can be affected by arthritis, the joints that carry the most weight, i.e. our knees and feet, are mostly affected. It also affects joints that we use a lot such as hands. Although it is not possible to reverse the disease, however, the symptoms can be managed. Also, with a balanced diet, weight management, and certain medications, the condition can be slowed down.
Osteoarthritis can cause the following symptoms to show:
If you have any of the above symptoms, do consult your doctor right away.
Following are the possible reasons behind osteoarthritis:
Age: Osteoarthritis generally happens from the late 40s. It might be because with age bones, and muscles weaken. Also, many people gain weight as they age, and the body is not able to heal as quickly, and efficiently as before.
Obesity: When you are overweight, or obese, there is additional pressure, especially on certain joints such as knees, and hips, which can lead to osteoarthritis.
Hereditary: Genetics plays a role in who gets, or doesn’t get osteoarthritis.
Joint injury: Injury to a joint, and the corresponding surgery for it can lead to this disease.
Joint abnormalities: If you are born with a joint abnormality, or develop it later in life, it can result in osteoarthritis in that joint.
Other joint diseases: Certain joint diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, and gout can affect the joints, which in turn can lead to the development of osteoarthritis.
Other than the above-mentioned causes, there are factors that can put you at a greater risk of getting the disease:
Gender: Women are more likely to get osteoarthritis as compared to men. They are also affected more seriously.
Physical Activity: Although normal activities, and exercise don’t lead to osteoarthritis. But if you perform hard, and repeated activities that are extremely physically challenging, it can put you at risk of getting the disease.
The disease that affects the joins affects a person in the following ways:
There is no cure for osteoarthritis yet. However, there are ways you can manage the symptoms associated with this disease:
Balanced Diet: As per some studies, certain nutrients can ease osteoarthritis symptoms. Hence, include nutrients such as vitamin C, omega 3 fatty acids in your diet. However, instead of focusing on just one/few nutrients, have a balanced diet that includes all the nutrients. Have plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, dairy, meats, and healthy fats.
Exercise: It might seem that exercise is not ideal in the case of arthritis, however, as per some studies working out helps, as it boosts energy, and improves the quality of life. Focus on those exercises that strengthen the muscles, because these will support the joints affected by arthritis. Also, focus on aerobic exercises that will help you lose weight, as weight management is crucial to prevent excessive weight on certain joints.
Hot and cold therapy: Hot compress relieves pain, while cold compress relieves swelling. Hence, you can use a combination of both to understand what works for you.
While resting: The joints affected by osteoarthritis often get stiff while resting and can cause pain. You can use pillows to relieve undue stress on those joints.
Medication: Certain medicines ease arthritis pain. However, consult a doctor before having them, as they can cause side effects.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with, hence talk to people, and don’t shy away from seeking support.
Food cannot cure osteoarthritis, but having a balanced one can help ease its symptoms. For example, anti-inflammatory foods will ease inflammation, while antioxidants, and vitamins A, C, and E might prevent further damage to the joints. Also, having a balanced diet helps in weight management, which is crucial to not put additional pressure on the affected joints. Hence, if you are suffering from osteoarthritis, include the following foods in your diet that are approved by renowned Dietitian Swati Bathwal:
As we saw that some level of exercise and physical activity is needed in case of osteoarthritis, you shouldn’t overexert yourself, so as to cause excessive stress on the joints. Here are some exercises that you can do:
There is no cure for osteoarthritis, however, managing its symptoms will help you carry on your life normally. Make certain lifestyle changes, such as be physically active and have a balanced diet. You can seek physical therapy and take medications to ease the pain. The disease can take a mental toll, hence consult an expert if needed.
There are certain tips that might protect you from developing osteoarthritis:
So, as we saw that osteoarthritis is probably the most common type of arthritis, for multiple reasons. There is no cure for it, however, there are ways to manage its symtoms. Also, you can follow certain prevention techniques to protect yourself from getting this disease in the first place.
https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/osteoarthritis/
https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/osteoarthritis.htm
https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/osteoarthritis#tab-risk
https://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/Diseases-Conditions/Osteoarthritis