Osteoarthritis is one of the most common types of arthritis that impacts several people every year. This disorder mainly impacts the protective cartilage of our body whose main role is to cushion the bone ends. As a result, it severely damages the joints of the bone making it prone to further injuries.
If you or your near ones are suffering from osteoarthritis then it is essential to seek the guidance of a medical professional by visiting the best nursing home in Siliguri. The doctors can recommend the best treatment and lifestyle improvements to control the distressing symptoms of the disorder.
Here are some of the common symptoms, effects, and treatment options for osteoarthritis.
Symptoms
The symptoms of osteoarthritis are most common among people who are above the age of 50. In some cases, this issue leads to no significant symptoms but causes huge damage to the joints that can decrease the range of motion of the person.
Some of the common symptoms that one may experience include a crackling sound or grafting sensation in the joints, throbbing pain during movement, decreased flexibility, swelling and tissue inflammation, tenderness, and joint stiffness.
Effects
The most common joints of the body that can get hugely affected by osteoarthritis are the neck, knee, lower back, hips, and hands. The damage to the joints is irreversible but you can contact the top orthopaedic doctor in Siliguri to stop any further damage.
-
Neck- Osteoarthritis that impacts the neck mostly degenerates and damages the spinal discs, joints, and vertebrae. The symptoms caused by cervical osteoarthritis are bone spurs, stiffness, decreased coordination, and inflammation.
- Knee- Osteoarthritis affecting one or more knees can be caused due to certain injuries. Common issues that one can experience with this disorder are severe pain while doing certain activities such as going upstairs or walking.
- Lower Back- Stiffness and pain in the neck or back is the most common symptom of osteoarthritis affecting the lower back region. In some cases, it can also cause grinding or crunching noises with stiffness in the back.
- Hips- Osteoarthritis in the hip can cause pain in the buttocks, groin area, and thighs. The hip joint is hugely affected by this issue, which leads to severe discomfort and difficulty moving.
- Hands- The top and middle joints of the fingers and the thumb are the main areas affected by osteoarthritis in the hands. Swelling, weakness, stiffness, and joint deformity are the early signs of this issue.
Treatment Options
Before recommending a treatment option, the doctor will diagnose your condition with the help of joint fluid analysis, MRI, X-rays, ultrasound, or blood tests. These tests will give the doctor a brief overview of the areas that have been damaged.
The common treatment options that you can avail of to improve your condition and mobility include lifestyle modifications, medications, usage of assistive devices, physical or occupational therapy, joint replacement, and realignment of the bones.
If osteoarthritis has caused severe damage to your bones then the only effective option for you is to avail of orthopaedic surgery in Siliguri. Some of the lifestyle improvements that you can consider for controlling the symptoms are maintaining body weight and exercising regularly.
Sources:
Osteoarthritis: Causes, symptoms, and treatment
Osteoarthritis - Symptoms & causes
