Living with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee can be quite literally a pain, but it doesn’t always have to be. Osteoarthritis, often called “wear and tear,” arthritis is the most common form of arthritis. OA can affect any joint, causing considerable disability and high health costs. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 32.5 million adults in the United States alone are affected by OA. While any joint can be affected, OA typically targets hands, knees, hips, neck, and lower back. The main symptoms associated with OA are joint pain, stiffness, and joint mobility issues. For some, the symptoms may come and go. In contrast, others may experience a more consistent pain putting a halt on day-to-day activities.
What Causes OA – Is It Preventable?
OA is caused by harm suffered to the joint cartilage between bones. However, certain things can place you more at risk for developing osteoarthritis, such as:
- Being overweight
- Previous injury to a joint
- Being over the age of 45
- Recurrent climbing, kneeling or squatting
- Heavy lifting
- Family history of OA is present
While osteoarthritis is not preventable, you can implement life changes to minimize risk and help manage living with OA knee pain. There is no way to test specifically for OA; your doctor may request an x-ray examination be completed to receive a diagnosis. They will use this to look for changes in the shape of your joints. A blood test may also be used to help rule out other potential forms of arthritis.
Day-to-Day Living with OA
Osteoarthritis is a long-term condition that affects everyday life. Yet, managing the struggle of living with OA knee pain is available. While there is no magic cure, there are still things to help soften the blow of how this condition affects you. The main objective when treating OA is to return mobility and reduce pain. A typical treatment may include the following:
- Regular exercise stretches help promote joint flexibility and muscle movement.
- Weight management, if necessary, can help to alleviate knee pain induced by OA.
- Anti-inflammatories or pain relievers such as Naproxen or Tylenol aid with pain management.
- Injections of corticosteroids are potent anti-inflammatory drugs administered straight into the area of pain.
- If knee pain is severe, surgery may be a logical suggestion for more long-term relief.
Is osteoarthritis stopping you from living life to the fullest? If you or a loved one is living with OA of the knee, you may be eligible for upcoming research studies. Those that qualify may receive knee replacement surgery at no cost and receive compensation for time and travel. For more information on all that Endeavor Clinical Trials offers, contact us at (210) 949-0807 or click here to apply online !
Resources:
https://www.arthritis.org/diseases/more-about/osteoarthritis-of-the-knee
