Causes of Osteoarthritis [How to Prevent Osteoarthritis?]

One of the most common degenerative joint disorders is osteoarthritis (OA). Patients often tell their doctors, “I cured my osteoarthritis,” & then look for ways to make this hope come true. The causes of osteoarthritis are unclear despite ongoing research. However, a combination of mechanical & biological factors may cause the condition.

Let’s examine the causes of osteoarthritis, as well as its stages, symptoms, diagnosis, how to prevent osteoarthritis & the available treatments.

Osteoarthritis Pathophysiology

Understanding the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis is essential for effective treatment. As the cartilage deteriorates (due to the release of proinflammatory cytokines & enzymes & the formation of osteophytes, or bone spurs), it becomes rigid & brittle, resulting in pain & movement restriction. Over time, cartilage may deteriorate completely, causing bones to rub directly against one another.

Pain is the primary osteoarthritis symptom, particularly after prolonged activity. Additional osteoarthritis symptoms include:

• Stiffness, particularly upon waking up or being inactive
• Tenderness when mild pressure is applied
• Loss of flexibility
• A grating sensation while in motion or Crepitus
• Swelling (or inflammation) around the joint

Different joints cause different types of osteoarthritis:

• Knee Osteoarthritis: The most common type, which affects millions worldwide.
• Hip Osteoarthritis: This affects the hip joint & can affect walking ability.
• Hand Osteoarthritis: Affects the thumb’s base & the individual fingers.
• Spine Osteoarthritis: Targets the neck & lower back.

Causes of Osteoarthritis

OA is the primary cause of chronic disability among the elderly. The disease primarily affects weight-bearing joints, such as the knees, hips, cervical & lumbar spines, & feet. Also frequently affected are the distal interphalangeal (DIP), proximal interphalangeal (PIP), & first carpometacarpal (CMC) joints.

The common causes of osteoarthritis, such as:

• Aging: Age-related changes in collagen matrix traits such as declines in chondrocyte responsiveness, decreased lubricating fluid inside the joints, & dropped repair ability worsen cartilage deterioration, an indicator of OA. 
• Joint Injuries & Mechanical Stress: A joint injury from sports, work, or accidents can be one of the primary causes of OA in old age. According to a study, knee injuries raise knee OA risk six-fold.
• Obesity: Joint cartilage wears down more quickly when there is more stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, & lower back. 
• Genetics: Some individuals have a genetic predisposition to develop OA. Evidence from familial & twin research points to an inheritance factor, although the genes responsible have yet to be identified.
• Bone deformities: Malformed joints or damaged cartilage may affect a person’s risk of developing OA from birth.
• Certain Occupations: Occupations involving repetitive stress on specific joints can increase the risk or predispose joints to an accelerated onset of OA.

What are the 4 Stages of Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis Diagnosis, Treatment & Preventive Measures:

A comprehensive medical history, physical examination, & imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI, are necessary for an accurate osteoarthritis diagnosis. 

Depending on the disease’s stage & severity, conservative treatments like physiotherapy or surgical procedures can help alleviate pain & enhance joint function. Dr. Sameep Sohoni, an Orthopedic Doctor in Thane, provides sophisticated osteoarthritis treatment solutions to meet patients’ demands.

How to prevent osteoarthritis is as follows:

• Maintaining a healthy weight relieves strain on weight-bearing joints.
• Keep Active while engaging in regular exercise to strengthen the muscles surrounding the joints.
• Alternate between repetitive tasks or use (or wear) joint protection to prevent chronic stress.
• Wear protective gear when engaging in sports to prevent accidents.

Conclusion

Understanding the “causes of osteoarthritis” & its impacts can aid patients & medical professionals in managing this degenerative condition. Although complete solutions are unusual, symptomatic relief & functional restoration are attainable due to modern medical advancements.

Dr. Sameep Sohoni – The Best Joint Replacement Surgeon in Thane

Dr. Sameep Sohoni, a renowned Knee Replacement Surgeon in Thane, is an expert in robotic knee replacement surgery, providing remarkable results & patient satisfaction. He’s the most famous orthopedic specialist, with over 12,000 patients & 12 years of experience in robotic joint replacement, fracture surgery, bone & joint disorders, sports injuries, & arthritis treatment.

If you are experiencing osteoarthritis symptoms, consult with Dr. Sameep Sohoni, a Joint Replacement Surgeon in Thane, who has extensive experience diagnosing & treating osteoarthritis. He will provide you with expert guidance & treatment options to manage your symptoms & enhance your quality of life.

Reference

• https://www.hopkinsarthritis.org/arthritis-info/osteoarthritis/oa-pathophysiology/ 
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoarthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351925 
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31072840/ 
• https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/musculoskeletal-and-connective-tissue-disorders/joint-disorders/osteoarthritis-oa 
• https://www.arthritis.org/diseases/osteoarthritis