Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease involving joint inflammation. It occurs when the cartilage at the tip of the overused bones weakens. Cushion from the cartilage is impossible which will then lead to the hitting of two bones. This will cause inflammation from joint damage and irritation. It mostly affects the joints in the neck, hands, hips, and knees. Older adults, obesity, bone deformities and injuries are at high risk of having osteoarthritis. Heredity and weight-bearing occupation also play a role in osteoarthritis.

Pain is one of the major symptoms accompanied by osteoarthritis, especially upon mobilization. Joint stiffness occurs upon waking up in the morning, and tenderness is felt even after applying light pressure on the affected part. Patients may experience difficulty moving the joint part due to pain. A grating sound may be heard upon movement.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease involving joint inflammation. Various factors can worsen or lighten the signs and symptoms of the disease.

Managing osteoarthritis is effectively done during early onset of signs and symptoms of the condition. The earlier the treatment, the more effective the result is. Thus, this following management should be considered especially by patients and high risk individuals:

Consulting the Physician

It is wiser to consult your doctor on the appropriate treatment for osteoarthritis because not all treatments available are suited for every patient with this condition.It is safer and effective especially in determining the right medications to be taken, or if you will need a physical therapist or just individual exercises at home.

Pain medications

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (ibuprofen and naproxen) are given to relieve inflammation and mild to moderate pain episodes. Tramadol is prescribed to alleviate severe pain but not inflammation. Codeine can also be given upon prescription. These opioid analgesic medications are used only for short-course treatment due to its higher risk of dependence. Cortisone can also be used through injections to relieve joint pain.

Therapy and Surgery

Physical therapy enables joint mobilization and muscle strengthening. A physical therapist gradually exercises the affected part until a higher range of motion is achieved. It can also be accomplished by gentle exercises such as walking, yoga, and swimming. Application of splints and braces are helpful to reduce pain upon movement. Elevation is done to promote normal circulation, and heat/cold packs are applied to relieve spasm and stiffness. Joint replacement is a surgical procedure done to replace damaged joint with prostheses. It promotes normal mobility and free of pain.

Balanced Diet and Achieving Ideal Weight

Weight-bearing joints from obesity and overweight can increase the chance of damaging the joints. Thus, a balanced meal must be obtained to effectively carry out an ideal weight. Minimize eating foods that eventually puts extra weight, joined together with regular exercise in burning extra calories in the body.

Rest and Avoiding Stress

Give your joints a breather. Since osteoarthritis is triggered by overused joints, rest is the easiest way to achieve pain relief. Avoid stress to attain full relaxation, since in stress, different parts of the body are working, including the joints.

To Summarize :

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease involving joint inflammation. Various factors can worsen or lighten the signs and symptoms of the disease. Rest, stress managing, diet therapies and medication therapies work collaboratively, especially with the use of tramadol.