Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, which cushions the ends of bones in the joints. It leads to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility in the affected areas.
20 Causes of Osteoarthritis
1. Aging: Natural wear and tear of cartilage with age.
2. Joint Injury: Previous injuries (fractures or ligament tears) increase OA risk.
3. Obesity: Extra weight adds stress to weight-bearing joints like hips and knees.
4. Repetitive Stress: Overuse of joints through physical labor or sports.
5. Genetics: Family history of osteoarthritis.
6. Gender: Women, especially after menopause, are at higher risk.
7. Weak Muscles: Poor muscle support around the joints.
8. Bone Deformities: Congenital joint abnormalities can lead to OA.
9. Inflammatory Joint Diseases: Pre-existing conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
10. Occupation: Jobs requiring repetitive kneeling, squatting, or heavy lifting.
11. Joint Misalignment: Conditions like bowlegs or knock knees.
12. Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of movement weakens muscles around the joints.
13. Sports Injuries: High-impact sports can increase joint stress.
14. Metabolic Disorders: Conditions like diabetes can affect cartilage health.
15. Hormonal Imbalances: Menopause leads to reduced estrogen, which may impact joints.
16. Cartilage Defects: Born with joint cartilage that is more prone to damage.
17. Chronic Joint Inflammation: Long-term swelling can wear down cartilage.
18. Previous Joint Surgery: Surgery on a joint may contribute to later degeneration.
19. Infections: Certain joint infections can cause cartilage damage.
20. Poor Posture: Improper alignment during daily activities.
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20 Signs and Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
1. Joint Pain: Most common symptom, often worsens with activity.
2. Stiffness: Especially in the morning or after resting.
3. Swelling: Inflammation around the affected joint.
4. Tenderness: Sensitivity to pressure on the joint.
5. Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty in moving the joint freely.
6. Grating Sensation: A feeling of bones rubbing together (crepitus).
7. Muscle Weakness: Surrounding muscles weaken due to lack of use.
8. Bone Spurs: Extra bone growths near the joints.
9. Joint Instability: Joints may feel like they "give out."
10. Deformity: Joint may appear enlarged or abnormal in shape.
11. Locking: Joint may become stuck or difficult to move.
12. Crackling Sound: A grinding noise during movement.
13. Pain During Activity: Pain may worsen after physical exertion.
14. Joint Enlargement: Thickening of the joint, especially in the fingers.
15. Difficulty Walking: Hip or knee OA may cause limping or unsteady walking.
16. Fatigue: Chronic pain can lead to tiredness or fatigue.
17. Pain with Weather Changes: Symptoms may worsen with cold or rainy weather.
18. Inability to Grasp: Hand and finger OA can reduce grip strength.
19. Difficulty Climbing Stairs: Knee OA may make climbing stairs painful.
20. Sleep Disruption: Persistent joint pain may disturb sleep.
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10 Effects of Osteoarthritis
1. Chronic Pain: Persistent joint pain affects daily activities and quality of life.
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