What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis, characterized by damage to the joints due to the loss of cartilage. Cartilage serves as a cushion between the bones in the joint. When cartilage deteriorates, bones can rub directly against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Osteoarthritis can affect various joints but most commonly impacts the knees, hips, hands, and spine.

Causes

Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage in the joint is damaged. Several factors can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis:

• Age: Osteoarthritis is more common in older individuals as cartilage naturally deteriorates with age.
• Joint Injuries: Trauma or injury to a joint can lead to osteoarthritis in the future.
• Obesity: Excess body weight puts extra stress on joints, particularly the knees and hips.
• Physical Activity or Occupation: Jobs or activities involving repetitive joint movements can increase the risk of osteoarthritis.
• Genetics: Genetic factors may play a role, especially if there is a family history of osteoarthritis.

Symptoms

Symptoms of osteoarthritis develop gradually and can worsen over time. Common symptoms include:

• Joint Pain: Pain that worsens with movement or after physical activity.
• Joint Stiffness: Especially noticeable after resting or waking up in the morning.
• Reduced Flexibility: Difficulty moving the joint.
• Swelling: Caused by inflammation around the joint.
• Crepitus: A grinding or clicking sound when moving the joint due to bones rubbing together.
• Joint Deformity: Changes in the shape of the joint, especially in the fingers.

Treatment

While osteoarthritis cannot be cured, several strategies can help manage symptoms:

• Medications:

  • Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
  • Anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce inflammation.
  • Joint supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin may help some individuals.

• Physical Therapy: Specific exercises can improve flexibility and strengthen muscles around the affected joint.

• Weight Management: Reducing body weight can lessen stress on weight-bearing joints.

• Assistive Devices: Tools like canes or knee braces can reduce pressure on painful joints.

• Surgery: If other treatments are ineffective and osteoarthritis is severe, surgical options such as joint replacement may be considered.

Prevention

Although not all risk factors can be prevented, there are ways to reduce the likelihood of developing osteoarthritis or slow its progression:

• Stay Physically Active: Regular exercise, such as walking or swimming, helps maintain joint flexibility and strengthens surrounding muscles.
• Maintain an Ideal Weight: Reducing the load on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.
• Protect Joints from Injury: Avoid activities that can cause repeated joint trauma.

References:

• Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia - Osteoarthritis
• World Health Organization (WHO) - Musculoskeletal Conditions
• Health Journal - Osteoarthritis: Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Options (PubMed)