Osteoarthritis is a chronic disorder that usually affects several joints in the body. While any joint can be affected, the the knees, hips, hands and the upper and lower back are common sites. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis in senior citizens. It is sometimes known as degenerative joint disease (or, in the back, degenerative disc disease(DDD). Persons with osteoarthritis often experience joint stiffness, swelling, discomfort and pain.



Osteoarthritis is thought to be caused by wear and tear on the joints over time. Genetic factors. prior injuries, and a history of heavy physical labor or contact sports all seem to contribute to the development of the disease. Osteoarthritis is the most frequent cause of disability in older adults. Osteoarthritis is not an auto-immune disease like rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. Redness and heat usually do not accompany the joint pain and swelling.

Moist heat can relieve joint pain, but in some cases cold is preferred. Heat increases blood flow to the area, while cold decreases the blood flow to the area. Patients often try both approaches to see what works best for them. In some cases night time splinting is used to allow the joints and muscles to rest in a normal position while sleeping to help decrease the risk of the joint stiffening into a position that won't move.

Arthritis treatment is aimed at increasing comfort and flexibility. Low impact exercise programs keep joints flexible. Exercise needs to be done in moderation and with the advice of a physician. Exercise can also elevate mood, decrease pain (over time) and improve memory. It helps you maintain a healthy weight, and being overweight puts extra strain on arthritic joints. Flexibility exercises such as Yoga and Tai Chi can also help the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are sometimes used to decrease pain and swelling. NSAIDs include the over the counter drugs naproxen and ibuprofen and other drugs prescribed by a doctor. Some patients report that glucosamine and MSM (available over the counter) helps decrease pain and improve joint functioning over time. Some research supports this assertion.

Doctors may inject corticosteroids into arthritic joints to give several months of pain relief and improved mobility. These medications can have side effects, and cortisone injections are usually not advised more frequently than once every several months.

Holistic treatments such as acupuncture and massage give relief to some. Acupuncture is thought by practitioners to unblock the flow of "qi" (vital energy) in the body. Western scientists see it differently, but studies show that it can be effective in relieving pain. Massage has also been shown to relieve the pain of arthritis. Physical therapists use other treatment modalities that benefit some patients.

Joint replacement surgery is sometimes used when the joints have degenerated to the point that the person has difficulty getting around. The goal of surgery is to improve the patient's mobility and decrease pain. Less extensive surgery is sometimes used to correct problems in arthritic joints.

Stronger medications, such as narcotics, are sometimes used when there is severe pain accompanying the arthritis. Other pain management approaches can also be helpful, including relaxation, biofeedback, and hypnosis. As we get older most of us will develop some osteoarthritis. A patient with arthritis will likely have some pain for the rest of his or her life. The goal is usually to help them have a good life anyway ? even though they always have some pain.