Osteoarthritis (OA) is a condition that affects the structure of the joints of the body. It can affect any joint in the body and can present itself as reduced movement, stiffness and pain. It is important to know that the amount of change in the joint does not relate to the amount of pain a person might experience.
OA does not inevitably get worse. Only 1 in 5 people will progress, OA does not have to result in joint replacement for everyone.
OA affects 1 in 10 people – that is about 65 000 Tasmanians.
What causes Osteoarthritis?
The exact cause of OA is not clear, but we do know there are many risk factors that can increase your likelihood of developing OA in a joint. These include your genetics, a history of injury to a joint, hormonal factors, muscle weakness, family history, your occupation, mechanical factors, being overweight and inflammatory factors. OA is not a condition that only affects older people.
50% of OA can be prevented by avoided excess weight gait. You are 30% more likely to develop hand OA if you are overweight.
Typical symptoms with an arthritic joint:
- Morning stiffness
- Joint instability
- Pain with movement
- Reduced movement
Diagnosing Osteoarthritis:
OA can be clinically diagnosed without the use of X-rays by a physiotherapist or GP based on a thorough physical assessment taking into account your symptoms and history. X-rays are recommended when other conditions are in question. MRIs are not required for the diagnosis of OA.
About 90% of people over the age of 50 without pain or OA will have some sort of joint abnormality on MRI.
Management of Osteoarthritis:
Education and self management – seek advice from your physiotherapist or GP. Myjointpain.org is a website designed to give simple to understand information about all treatment options and current research to address your physical and psychological health needs.
Review your exercise regime – appropriate strength and stretching exercises are proven to reduce pain associated with OA – this can be on land or water based. Exercise improves pain 2-3 times better than pain medication.
Discuss pain management options with your GP or pharmacist
Manage your weight – speak with a dietician if you feel you need assistance.
If all the above management is not successful then discuss surgery with your GP.
Physiotherapy and Osteoarthritis:
Your physiotherapist can provide you with an appropriate exercise program, education, support and guidance so you are able to manage your OA long term. An appropriate exercise program can strengthen and support your joints, improve your balance and stability, reduce your pain and increase your function and quality of life.
So if you are concerned you might has osteoarthritis or have been diagnosed and looking to get on top of your pain, visit your physiotherapist to discuss an exercise and pain management plan today.
Author
Shona Manning (B.Phys) – Physiotherapist, Back In Motion Rosny Park