As an orthopedic surgeon, I encounter many patients struggling with arthritis, a condition that affects millions worldwide. In this post, we’ll delve into what arthritis is, what causes it, practical tips for managing it, and a brief overview of treatment options.

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a degenerative joint disease that primarily affects the cartilage—the protective tissue that cushions the ends of bones in the joints. Over time, this cartilage breaks down, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility in the affected joints.

Pathophysiology of Arthritis: The pathophysiology of osteoarthritis involves a complex interplay of factors, including:

1. Cartilage Degradation: Wear and tear on the cartilage over years of use result in its breakdown, leading to exposed bone surfaces and friction.
2. Inflammation: Inflammatory molecules released within the joint contribute to pain and further cartilage damage.
3. Bone Remodeling: As Arthritis progresses, changes occur in the underlying bone, including the formation of osteophytes (bone spurs) & subchondral bone sclerosis.

Most Common Causes of Arthritis: While aging is a significant risk factor for arthritis, several other factors can contribute to its development:

1. Joint Overuse: Repetitive stress on a joint due to occupational or sports-related activities can accelerate cartilage wear and tear.
2. Obesity: Excess body weight increases the load on weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and hips, leading to cartilage breakdown.
3. Joint Injuries: Previous joint injuries, such as fractures or ligament tears, can predispose individuals to arthritis later in life.

Do’s & Don’ts for Managing Arthritis:

Do’s:

1. Stay Active: Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling can help maintain joint flexibility & strengthen surrounding muscles without exacerbating symptoms.
2. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Losing even a small amount of weight can significantly reduce stress on weight-bearing joints & alleviate pain.
3. Use Assistive Devices: Supportive devices like canes, braces, or shoe inserts can help reduce joint strain and improve mobility.
4. Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can provide essential nutrients for joint health & help manage inflammation.

Don’ts:

1. Avoid High-Impact Activities: Activities like running or jumping can put excessive stress on already compromised joints, worsening symptoms.
2. Limit Joint Overuse: Prolonged or repetitive activities that strain the joints should be avoided to prevent further cartilage damage.
3. Smoking: Smoking has been linked to increased cartilage breakdown and inflammation, so quitting smoking can be beneficial for managing arthritis symptoms.

Treatment Options for Arthritis: While there is no cure for arthritis, several treatment options can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life:

1. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help alleviate pain and inflammation.
2. Physical Therapy: Exercise program tailored to individual needs, focusing on strengthening exercises and range-of-motion exercises.
3. PRP injections or hyaluronic acid injections directly into the affected joint can provide temporary pain relief and improve joint function.

Arthritis is a common condition that can significantly impact daily life, but with the right management strategies and treatment options, individuals can minimize symptoms & maintain their mobility.

By staying active, maintaining a healthy weight & following their healthcare provider’s recommendations, individuals can better manage arthritis and enjoy a higher quality of life.