Osteoarthritis

• Pain and stiffness of the joints
• Bone spurs
• Grinding sensation in joints (bones rubbing against each other)

• Repetitive movement and stress on joints, such as activity on the job or sports
• Age — Onset generally begins to occur after the age of 50
• Obesity — The extra weight causes more stress on the joints such as the knees and hips
• Gender — here is a higher rate of occurrence in females
• Previous joint injury (such as sports, military, falls, accidents)
• Type 2 diabetes
• Family history

• Limited activity due to pain and stiffness
• Decreased range of motion
• Breakdown/deterioration of cartilage
• Increased risk of bone fracture
• Feelings of social isolation and depression due to pain and lack of mobility

Because some significant factors are genetics or age, Osteoarthritis cannot be prevented 100% of the time. There are, however, steps you can take to help protect your joints. The earlier you adopt these healthy measures, the greater the likelihood of keeping this disease at bay. Some of these actions are:

• Staying active, movement to keep fluid in the joints
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Avoiding consistent overuse of joints

Your doctor should make an official diagnosis. They will run tests such as x-rays or examination of joint fluid. Unfortunately, there are no cures for Osteoarthritis. However, there are ways to slow its progression and reduce the symptoms. Some of the ways it can be managed are:

• Reducing inflammation
• Low impact exercise
• Reducing sugar intake
• Pain relievers (Both OTC and prescription strength)
• Steroid injections
• Physical Therapy
• Acupuncture for pain management
• Surgery
• Peripheral neuropathy