Does lifting a book or a bag cause pain in your hand or shoulder? Does bending down to pick up a brown boot on the floor prove to be very difficult? If yes, then it's possible that you already have osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis is sometimes referred to as osteoarthrosis, OA, degenerative arthritis and others. It's the most common among all forms of arthritis. It can strike any joint in the body, especially weight-bearing ones. But it usually occurs in the knees, back, hips and hands.
It happens when the cartilage providing cushioning between your bone joints become damaged. A person suffering from osteoarthritis usually experiences pain and swelling in the affected areas. The normal range of motion becomes limited too. There are many risk factors for this disease. It can be because of age, obesity, injury or overuse of a joint, and even hereditary factors.
If you're suffering from this joint disease, there are ways to effectively reduce the signs and symptoms. But first, it's important to visit a doctor. An examination should reveal whether it's actually osteoarthritis you're suffering from. Based on the findings, your doctor will come up with a suitable mode of treatment.
To help you deal with pain, analgesics are prescribed. NSAIDs, or non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs, are prescribed to help alleviate the swelling. These drugs are usually taken orally. However, injectable forms of medications may also be administered.
If you're overweight, then a particular diet may be given by your doctor. This is important to help you lose weight, thus freeing your joints from too much pressure. Such diet will also focus on foods that will provide you with the right nutrients good for your recuperation.
Mild exercises also help in alleviating the pain and improving your limited range of motion. Which exercises to perform should come from an occupational or physical therapist. Performing the right exercises will help strengthen the bones and muscles. It will also help in increasing the flexibility of the affected joints.
Supplements, such as Kirkland glucosamine tablets, will help in slowing down the deterioration of cartilage. Glucosamine is naturally produced by the body. But its production tends to slow down with age. Other supplements may include ingredients such as chrondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids, and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM).
If your osteoarthritis is mild, the above remedies might help you lead a normal life once more. In no time, you'll be back doing your usual activities, like playing your ibanez acoustic electric guitar. However, for severe cases, undergoing surgery may be necessary to relieve the pain or damage.
