What is Osteoarthritis by Se’an Whiteside

There are millions of Americans that live with arthritis each and everyday. We live in a world that is plagued by this disease. We once thought that arthritis was only for the old and aged individuals. As we have learned more about this disease, we have learned that it can also affect the very young and energetic. This disease is one that can make daily living challenging with some discomfort at times.

There are many different causes of arthritis, such as Osteoarthritis. A tough smooth like coating are at the end of the bones in your joints deteriorates over time. The cartilage allows bones of the joint to slide over each other. In Osteoarthritis wear damages the cartilage and over time the joints begin to rub together with begins to cause friction. Over a period of time it can cause restriction of movement and much pain.

In order to diagnose this disease you may do so in an x-ray that will show the loss of cartilage between the joints in your bones. ”You may also be able to pick up evidence of bone spurs on an x-ray” ( Mayo clinic). “Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field to produce detailed images of bone and soft tissue, which includes cartilage. This can help to locate the source of your pain” ( Mayo Clinic).

You may have many different symptoms in determining if you have Osteoarthritis. These are some of the commons systems that you may have. You may have pain in your joint during or after movement. “You may have some tenderness when you apply slight pressure to the joint” (WebMD). The joint may become stiff and non mobile after you wake or from non movement for a period of time. “At times you may hear or feel a grating sound or feeling when in motion with the joint” (WebMD).

Sometimes treatment comes in many types of forms. Treatment may consist of less mobility on the painful joints or exercising on a regular basis. There may also be pain pills given to help ease the discomfort. You may be given a walking device such as a walker or crutches to help with mobility and pain. Surgery may be recommended in serious cases were the patient is in horrible pain and discomfort. The doctor may recommend using hot and cold patches to ease the inflammation to the joints.

There is no known cure for Osteoarthritis. This is a condition that deteriorates the cartilage between the joints over a period of time. The only thing you can do to ease the pain by following your doctor orders and the treatment that he or she prescribes.

In conclusion Osteoarthritis is a painful and life altering disease that is suffered by millions of people in the word. There are constant improvements in finding ways to help people cope with their pain and suffering of this disease.

American Academy of Orthopedic surgeons, “Osteoarthritis […]
Mayo Foundation for medical education and research […]
WebMD […]