Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the protective cartilage at the ends of bones wears down over time. It commonly affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. At Sp Medifort, our expert orthopedic team provides advanced care for early diagnosis, effective management, and improved quality of life.

Factors that can increase your risk of osteoarthritis include:

• Age: Osteoarthritis is more common in adults over 50, as cartilage naturally wears down with time.
• Obesity: Excess body weight places additional stress on weight-bearing joints, particularly the knees and hips.
• Joint Injuries or Overuse: Previous injuries, repetitive movements, or physically demanding activities can increase the likelihood of joint degeneration.
• Bone Deformities: Abnormalities in joint or cartilage structure present from birth can increase the risk of OA.
• Metabolic Disorders: Health conditions such as diabetes or excess iron (hemochromatosis) may contribute to developing OA.
• Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis or other joint problems can make individuals more susceptible.
• Gender: Women, especially after menopause, are at a higher risk of developing osteoarthritis due to hormonal and structural factors.

Osteoarthritis cannot be cured, but treatment can help reduce pain and improve mobility.

Medications: Medications for osteoarthritis focus on relieving pain and reducing inflammation. Acetaminophen may help control mild to moderate pain when taken at recommended doses. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, are commonly used to reduce pain and swelling and are available in oral or topical gel forms. In some cases, duloxetine may be prescribed to manage chronic osteoarthritis pain, especially when pain affects daily activities.

Therapies: Non-surgical therapies play an important role in improving joint function and reducing discomfort. Physical therapy helps strengthen muscles around the joints, improve flexibility, and ease pain through guided exercises. Occupational therapy teaches patients ways to perform daily activities with less joint strain using supportive tools or modified techniques. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) may provide short-term pain relief for some patients by using low-voltage electrical currents.

Surgical and Other Procedures: When medications and therapies do not provide adequate relief, surgical or interventional treatments may be considered. Corticosteroid injections can reduce joint inflammation and pain for short periods, while hyaluronic acid injections may improve joint cushioning in selected cases. For joint misalignment, procedures like osteotomy help redistribute weight away from damaged areas. In severe osteoarthritis, joint replacement surgery may be recommended to restore mobility and significantly improve quality of life.