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Understanding the Telltale Signs of Osteoarthritis

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16 July 2024

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3 minute read

Understanding the Telltale Signs of Osteoarthritis

By Dr. Ronny Arul A/l Arumugam

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common joint conditions, impacting millions of people around the globe. OA can lead to significant discomfort and disability if not addressed early. Understanding the early symptoms of OA, such as joint pain, is crucial for effective management and treatment, allowing individuals to take proactive steps to preserve their joint health and maintain a high quality of life. So, pay attention to your joints and do not ignore the early warning signs—they are your body’s way of signaling that it is time to take action and care for your future mobility.

What is Osteoarthritis?

“Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is a degenerative joint disease that primarily targets the cartilage, the protective tissue covering the ends of bones in the joints. As the cartilage wears down over time, the bones begin to rub against each other, resulting in pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility,” says Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon from Columbia Asia Hospital – Klang, Dr. Ronny Arul Arumugam.

“A lot of people misunderstand this condition—they think it is just a part of getting older, but it can seriously impact your daily life and activities,” Dr. Ronny adds.

Osteoarthritis typically affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine, including the back. However, it can also impact other joints in the body, necessitating comprehensive orthopedic care.

Key Symptoms to Watch For:

  1. Morning Stiffness : 
    One of the hallmark symptoms of osteoarthritis is morning stiffness in the affected joints. Individuals with OA may experience difficulty moving the affected joint upon waking, but this can gradually improve as they begin to move and warm up the joint.

  2. Pain After Activity :
    Post-activity pain and stiffness are common indicators of OA progression. Individuals may notice increased discomfort and reduced joint function following physical exertion or prolonged periods of physical activity.

  3. Loss of Flexibility :
    Reduced range of motion in the affected joint is another telltale sign of osteoarthritis. As cartilage deteriorates and joint space narrows, individuals may find it challenging to perform daily activities that require bending, twisting, or reaching.

  4. Grating or Clicking :
    Persistent grating, popping, or clicking noises (pops) in the joints can be a sign of OA. While occasional joint sounds are normal, consistent cracking or grinding sensations may indicate cartilage damage and bone-on-bone contact within the joint. If you frequently hear pops when moving your joints, it may be time to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.

Risk Factors

Several factors increase the risk of developing OA. “Age plays a big role in osteoarthritis because the risk increases as our cartilage naturally wears down over time. Additionally, previous joint injuries, like fractures or ligament tears, can make it more likely for osteoarthritis to develop in those affected joints. Many people do not realize how past injuries can come back to affect them years later,” Dr. Ronny shares.

“Genetics also play a part in osteoarthritis, especially if it runs in your family. Having relatives with OA can raise your chances of developing it. On top of that, carrying extra weight puts more strain on joints like the knees and hips, speeding up cartilage breakdown and increasing the risk of OA,” Dr. Ronny explains. Lastly, certain occupations involving repetitive strenuous activities in athletic also pose a higher risk of OA in specific joints subjected to constant strain.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing osteoarthritis typically involves a combination of physical examinations, imaging studies, and joint fluid analysis. Common diagnostic methods include X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging, and joint aspiration to evaluate the extent of joint damage and rule out other conditions, such as gout, rheumatoid arthritis, and infection. The severity of OA can be classified based on X-ray findings, with grade 0 representing a normal joint and grade 4 indicating the most severe OA.

“Lifestyle changes, like maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and choosing joint-friendly activities such as cycling and swimming, can really help manage osteoarthritis symptoms and improve overall joint health. Physical therapy is also beneficial as it focuses on strengthening the muscles around the affected joint, improving flexibility, and enhancing range of motion,” says Dr. Ronny.

Other than that, medication options include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), pain relievers, and corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and inflammation. Additionally, oral supplements such as hyaluronic acid and collagen may be recommended to support joint health and reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Besides, hyaluronic acid injections, also known as visco-supplementation, involve injecting a gel-like substance into the joint to provide lubrication and cushioning, reducing pain and improving joint mobility. Dr. Ronny says that certain formulations of hyaluronic acid injections are specifically designed to promote joint healing through a process called visco-induction, which may aid in repairing damaged cartilage and enhancing joint function.

According to Dr. Ronny, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy involves injecting a concentrated solution of the patient’s platelets into the joint to promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation. PRP injections have shown promising results in managing symptoms of osteoarthritis and may help slow down the progression of the disease. In severe cases of osteoarthritis, surgical procedures such as joint replacement or arthroscopic surgery may be recommended to restore joint function and alleviate pain.

Living with Osteoarthritis

Managing osteoarthritis involves a multifaceted approach that includes regular exercise, weight management, joint protection techniques, regular medical check-ups, and adapting to lifestyle modifications.

“Low-impact activities such as swimming, cycling, and walking can help strengthen muscles, improve joint flexibility, and reduce pain associated with OA. Furthermore, maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on the joints, slowing the progression of OA and minimizing symptoms.

“Using assistive devices, modifying daily activities, and practicing good posture can also help protect the joints and prevent further damage. Other than that, periodic visits to healthcare providers are recommended to monitor OA progression, adjust treatment plans, and provide early intervention when necessary,” advises Dr. Ronny.

Lastly, embracing lifestyle changes, such as dietary adjustments, stress management, and ergonomic improvements, can enhance quality of life and support overall joint health.

Recognizing the telltale signs of OA is essential for early detection and effective management of this degenerative joint disease. By understanding the symptoms and risk factors associated with OA, and exploring a range of treatment options, individuals can take proactive steps to maintain their joint health and seek timely medical intervention when needed. Through a comprehensive approach that includes lifestyle modifications, appropriate treatment strategies, and regular healthcare monitoring, individuals can enhance their quality of life and minimize the impact of OA on daily activities. “Stay informed, stay proactive, and prioritize your joint health to live a fulfilling and active life despite osteoarthritis. Taking care of your joints now can make a huge difference later. It is all about making small changes today that can lead to a more comfortable tomorrow,” Dr. Ronny reminds.

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16 July 2024

•

3 minute read

Understanding the Telltale Signs of Osteoarthritis

By Dr. Ronny Arul A/l Arumugam

Dr. Ronny Arul A/l Arumugam

Orthopedic

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