Does lifting a book or a bag cause pain in your hand or shoulder? Does bending down to pick up a brown boot on the floor prove to be very difficult? If yes, then it’s possible that you already have osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis is sometimes referred to as osteoarthrosis, OA, degenerative arthritis and others. It’s the most common among all forms of arthritis. It can strike any joint in the body, especially weight-bearing ones. But it usually occurs in the knees, back, hips and hands.
It happens when the cartilage providing cushioning between your bone joints become damaged. A person suffering from osteoarthritis usually experiences pain and swelling in the affected areas. The normal range of motion becomes limited too. There are many risk factors for this disease. It can be because of age, obesity, injury or overuse of a joint, and even hereditary factors.
If you’re suffering from this joint disease, there are ways to effectively reduce the signs and symptoms. But first, it’s important to visit a doctor. An examination should reveal whether it’s actually osteoarthritis you’re suffering from. Based on the findings, your doctor will come up with a suitable mode of treatment.
Medications will be likely prescribed. Analgesics will help you with pain relief. For the swelling, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be administered. There are also certain medications given through injection, for severe cases.
If you’re overweight, then a particular diet may be given by your doctor. This is important to help you lose weight, thus freeing your joints from too much pressure. Such diet will also focus on foods that will provide you with the right nutrients good for your recuperation.
You may also be referred to a physical therapist. A physical therapist will provide you with exercises which you can use to your advantage. They will help you improve your normal range of motion. Also, they will assist in strengthening your muscles and increasing your flexibility.
There are also food supplements that are said to help in repairing damaged cartilages, such as Kirkland glucosamine tablets. The body’s production of glucosamine wears off as you age. It’s an important substance for the formation and repair of cartilage. Other supplements contain substances like methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), omega-3 fatty acids and chrondroitin.
If you will adhere to your doctor’s recommendations, in no time you will benefit from them. You can perform much of your given up activities, such as using an ibanez acoustic electric guitar or playing with your kids. But for severe osteoarthritis cases, undergoing operation may be necessary for relief.