Osteoarthritis, also known as “wear and tear” arthritis, is the most common form of arthritis that affects joints and literally means inflammation of a joint. It occurs when the protective cartilage on the ends of your bones wears down over time; this cartilage provides a cushion and; thus, plays an important role in dissipating load forces and protecting the underlying bone. If damaged, it, over a period, leads to exposing the bone and the growth of bone spurs (osteophytes). Accordingly, it leads to pain and stiffness that worsens over time, making it difficult to do daily activities. Although osteoarthritis can damage any joint in your body, the disorder often happens at joints in your hands, knees, hips and spine.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of osteoarthritis include:

• Pain in the joint.
• Tenderness
• Stiffness in the joint, most noticeable when you wake up in the morning or after a period of inactivity.
• Loss of flexibility
• A decreased range of motion.
• Grating sensation
• Bone spurs

Risk factor

• Obesity/ Heavyweight
• Trauma
• Infection
• Hereditary
• Older age
• Gender
• Joint injuries
• Certain occupation
• Bone deformities

Complications

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that will probably worsen over time. Joint pain and stiffness may become severe enough to make daily tasks difficult. Sometimes, it becomes so bad in condition that some people may not be able to work any longer.

Physical therapy treatment

Exercising and achieving a healthy weight are generally the most important ways to treat osteoarthritis. But the right plan can help you stay active, protect your joints from damage, limit injury, and control pain.  A physical therapy is a balanced fitness program, our physical therapist will work with you to create an individualized exercise program that will help in improving flexibility, strengthen the muscles around your joint, increase in range of motion & reduce pain. There are many physical therapy treatments such as Manual therapy & Active Release Techniques (ART) are found to be very effective in treating this type of disorder.
For more information- Contact your local SOS PHYSIO clinic

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