What is and what causes Osteoarthritis (OA)?

Medically, there are 100 types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis (OA) is considered most common. It is described as a chronic (long-term), degenerative joint condition; meaning, it gets worse over time by breaking down joint cartilage of the hands, knees, hips, or spine most often.

OA is classified either primary or secondary. Primary OA has an unidentifiable cause. However, the secondary OA is caused by another infection, disease, deformity or injury.

What are the risk factors of OA?

• Heredity
  There are genetic problems that lead to OA; including joint defects or laxity.
• Weight
  Overweight/obesity add stress on joints in the knees.
• Injury/Overuse/Misuse
  Injury to joints may lead to OA; resulting from trauma, overuse or misuse.

What are the most common symptoms of OA?

1. Joint pain and stiffness, especially after rest/inactivity
2. Lesser movement in the joint
3. Grinding feeling in the joint when moving

(NOTE: Symptoms of OA can mimic other health conditions. Make sure to see a Rheumatologist in Indiana for a diagnosis.)

What are the treatments?

Depending on the patient’s condition severity, symptoms, age, and general health, the goal of the treatment is to alleviate joint pain and stiffness; improving joint movement.

Regular Exercise

Stretching and strength exercises help ease the pain/other symptoms.

Heat Treatment

Heat also help ease the pain.

Physical and Occupational Therapy

These therapies help in easing the pain, improving flexibility, and reducing strain.

Weight Maintenance

If needed, healthy/losing weight help prevent/ease symptoms.

Medication

This includes both pain relievers and anti-inflammatory.

Thick Liquids Injection

These fluids act like a normal joint fluid.

Surgery

Surgery is necessary to repair/replace severely damaged joints.

For Rheumatology Treatment in Muncie, Indiana, talk with Dr. Tarek Kteleh.

The Rheumatology of Central Indiana can answer your inquiries about Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment and other autoimmune diseases.

Dr. Kteleh is a passionate Rheumatologist who treats patients for joint point, autoimmune and connective tissue diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and more. Call us to book your appointment today.