Osteoarthritis, commonly referred to as OA, is the most widespread form of arthritis. Generally, osteoarthritis begins with
the cartilage in your joints slowly breaking down. This breakdown will eventually cause you pain and possibly stiffness in
your joints.
The pain is caused by the lack of cartilage, which cushions the joints in between bones. Eventually, when the cartilage
begins to fade away the bones start rubbing again each other. The most commonly effected areas of OA include the hangs,
knees, hips, feet and back which are some of the joints that carry a lot of stress from your weight. That said, keeping you
weight at a heavy level might prevent osteoarthritis. Those people that are obese are more likely to acquire this form of
arthritis, especially at the knees.
Osteoarthritis may also run in your family. Small defects present at birth may lead to bigger problems when you are older.
If OA runs in your family you may want to talk to your physician about steps you can take to avoid arthritis. Also, if you
play physically demanding sports you may be more susceptible to osteoarthritis. Senior citizens may also show signs of OA,
however, research shows that osteoarthritis is not something that everyone is destine to have.
To help treat OA you can take several steps to keep your joints healthy. Exercising on a frequent basis will help prevent
your cartilage from breaking down. If you already have signs of osteoarthritis you can get injections in your joints to help
prevent the inflammation. In extreme cases, surgery may be required from chronic pain. For temporary relief, however, heat
and cold therapy may help.
One thing is for sure, arthritis can be a very disabling condition. No one has to live his or her daily life with the pain
and suffering arthritis can cause. Take some steps and ask your physician if you feel your osteoarthritis may be getting
worse.
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