Easing the Pain of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. Older adults often get osteoarthritis, especially if they are overweight. There are many helpful things you can do to ease the pain of osteoarthritis. Read on for some helpful advice.

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that affects the cartilage that cushions your bones at the joints. Cartilage helps your bones glide over one another. If cartilage breaks down, the bones rub together. Osteoarthritis is a chronic (long lasting) condition.

What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis causes pain and stiffness in the joints. Osteoarthritis is often worst in the knees, hips and small hand joints. In most cases, the exact cause of osteoarthritis is not known.

Who is at risk of getting osteoarthritis?

• Women and men can both get osteoarthritis.
• Being overweight increases the risk of getting osteoarthritis. This happens because extra weight causes more wear and tear on the cartilage and joints.
• There are more cases of osteoarthritis in men who are younger than 45, while women tend to get it when they are 55 or older.
• Osteoarthritis can also occur due to repeated joint stress from certain physical jobs or sports.
• Osteoarthritis is genetic. That means you are more likely to get osteoarthritis if a family member also has it.

How can I manage OA?

Osteoarthritis cannot be cured. The good news is that you can manage your symptoms.

To learn more about managing OA, follow the article here

Retrieved from the Eat Right Ontario website