Spotlight on Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disorder (sometime know as “wear and tear” arthritis) which occurs when the cartilage or cushion between the joints breaks down leading to pain, stiffness and swelling typically affecting the hand, shoulder, hip, spine and knee.

What causes osteoarthritis?

The common causes of osteoarthritis include being overweight, aging, injuries to a joint, improper formation of a joint, joint cartilage genetic defects and extreme stresses placed on joints from playing sports or from working a particular job.

What are the signs and symptoms?

• Joint pain – the pain worsens with activity, especially following a period of rest
• Tenderness – your joint may feel tender when you apply light pressure to it.
• Morning stiffness – this usually lasts for less than 30 minutes
• Joint locking or joint instability.

What should I do if I am experiencing these symptoms?

Osteoarthritis can be diagnosed by a thorough physical examination, X-rays and tests to determine the amount of fluid throughout the joints.

At Healthworks, following diagnosis, a customised treatment plan is created. The treatment plan will be made up of several factors including weight control (weight management makes a substantial difference in the amount of inflammation a person with osteoarthritis has) and exercise, joint care and joint rest, natural pain relief techniques and therapies