Osteoarthritis

UNDERSTANDING OSTEOARTHRITIS

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, specifically among older people. More then 20 million people in the Untied States have osteoarthritis. While it is typically found in the elderly, some younger people do get it from joint injuries. Both men and women have the disease.

It is often referred to as degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis. Those affected by osteoarthritis typically have joint pain and limited movement. Unlike some other forms of arthritis – osteoarthritis affects only the joints not internal organs.

Osteoarthritis develops when the surface of the cartilage breaks down and wears away – leaving bone to rub on bone. The disease affects each person differently – progressing at different rates. Scientists are not sure yet what causes the disease however, they suspect that it can be attributable to age, weight, injury and stress on joints from athletic activity and/or job duties.

Most often, osteoarthritis comes on slowly. It can occur in any joint, typically in the hands, knees hips and spine. The most common symptoms are pain and stiffness in the joint. Early on in the disease, pain may only be felt after exercise. Over time the pain may become more constant and may even wake you up at night. The most successful treatment programs involve a combination of treatments tailored to the patient’s needs, lifestyle and health.

The good news about the disease is that it need not get worse over time. While there is no known cure for osteoarthritis, there are treatments that help decrease the pain and help you regain mobility. Exercise, rest and proper nutrition as well as assisted devices and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are all helpful in treating the disease.

If you suspect you have osteoarthritis, visit your physician. There are a number of diagnostic test that can be run to determine if you have the disease and to what extent it has developed. By seeking medical care early, you can live your life more fully.

OSTEOARTHRITS MANAGEMENT SERVICES AT ORTHOPAEDIC ASSOCIATES OF SARATOGA

People with arthritis can enjoy good health despite having the disease. Education is critical to understanding how to manage osteoarthritis. There is a much better chance of having a rewarding lifestyle when patients educate themselves about the disease and take part in their own care. Orthopaedic Associates of Saratoga offers a full range of osteoarthritis diagnostic and management services, including FREE educational seminars.

Throughout the year, MaryKay Nichols, NP, MS and Anthony DeMatteo, RPT – Saratoga Physical Therapy Associates – conduct interactive seminars that consist of educational and exercise components. Topics of discussion include “Healthy vs. Arthritic Joints, “Medical Management Options”, “Surgical Treatment Options”, and “Alternative Treatment Options”. Upcoming seminars are posted on our Patient Education Page under “Upcoming Events”, as well as being published in the local newspapers. Please feel free to contact our office at 518/587-0845, for more information regarding these seminars.

For more information on osteoarthritis education and management, please click in these related links:

Arthritis Foundation

www.allaboutarthritis.com

Your Orthopaedic Connection