Symptoms and treatment methods for osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, and it is common among old people and people who are obese. It is a degenerative disease that affects the joints such as knees and hips. This condition develops when the cartilage of your bone joints are unable to do its regular job such as absorbing energy from physical movements. It is usually caused by the wear and tear that the cartilage has gone through over the years. When the cartilage breaks down, friction is created between the joints when they come in contact with each other, causing pain, loss of movement, swelling, and many other problems.

It is essential to know the symptoms of osteoarthritis so that you avoid the condition by getting it treated in the early stages. Let’s look at the various symptoms of osteoarthritis.

What are the symptoms of Osteoarthritis?

• Stiff joints: One of the most common symptoms of osteoarthritis is stiff joints. If your joints feel stiff after a period of inactivity, then there is a high chance that it is an indicator of this condition. You will also notice that your flexibility has declined, and you may also find it difficult to perform routine chores.

It is not enough to only know about the symptoms of osteoarthritis. After the condition has been accurately diagnosed, it is equally important to know about its different treatment methods.

Can osteoarthritis be treated with medication?

• Osteoarthritis patients can experience severe pain. Luckily, there are several medications available to control or reduce pain.
• NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) help in reducing pain and inflammation as well.
• Medications such as Duloxetine and Acetaminophen also help with the pain.
• However, it’s best to visit a doctor who can prescribe medications that are specific to your condition.

How can therapy help in treating osteoarthritis?

• Physical therapy is one of the best ways to cure osteoarthritis. It strengthens the muscles and reduces the stress caused to the joints.
• Eastern therapy methods such as yoga can also be used to get better as it helps to build muscle flexibility.
• Another common remedy for osteoarthritis is to have an active lifestyle with regular workouts.
• Endurance exercises and strength training have also shown amazing results.

Can surgery help in treating osteoarthritis?

• Surgery is generally the last resort for this condition.
• If the condition has worsened to the point where non-surgical treatments won’t work, your doctor will prescribe surgery to correct the damage.
• Surgeries such as bone realignment, joint replacement, and lubrication are commonly used to fix the issue.

It is very common for osteoarthritis patients to be diagnosed with osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition where the bone mass has reduced, making them prone to fractures. The latest treatments for osteoporosis includes new drugs that are more effective. They also include dietary supplements that help in increasing the bone mass.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should start paying more attention to them and consult an orthopedic doctor immediately.