Joint problems affect millions of people, restricting movement and causing pain. However, there are ways to alleviate these…
Joint changes affect millions of people, restricting movement and causing pain. However, there are ways to alleviate these symptoms. Adopting the right osteoarthritis medications can significantly contribute to a better quality of life.
It is important to emphasize that these alternatives do not replace the prescriptions of traditional treatments , which must always be maintained. Even so, they are valuable complements to deal with the discomforts that affect these individuals.
An overview of osteoarthritis
This health condition is currently called osteoarthritis. This change occurred because it has an inflammatory character (hence the “itis” at the end) and the second word ended up describing it more accurately.
In practice, osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis. This term encompasses all conditions associated with inflammation that affect the connections and joints between bones , including rheumatoid arthritis and gout.
These areas are covered by cartilage. These soft tissues allow the “hinges” between one bone and another to move smoothly when the body changes position, such as sitting, standing or walking.
So, what is important to know is that osteoarthritis is characterized precisely by the wear and tear of cartilage, especially in the hands, spine (including the lower back ), hips and knees.
Causes
Osteoarthritis is quite rare until the age of 50, approximately. However, as time goes by, it becomes more common.
According to the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology , it is likely that every person after the age of 60 will have some joint impairment similar to osteoarthritis.
For this reason, it was thought that its evolution was a natural consequence of aging . However, experts now agree that age is only one component of the picture , which can also be influenced by aspects such as:
- body weight ;
- maintaining a sedentary routine ;
- history of joint injuries or repetitive strain due to professional occupation;
- bone or cartilage deformities;
- genetic predisposition (i.e. when other close family members have this diagnosis);
- other joint disorders, such as the aforementioned gout and rheumatoid arthritis.
Women tend to show the condition more, especially due to the fluctuations seen during menopause . However, this does not mean that men are immune to osteoarthritis.
Symptoms
Gradually, friction between the worn cartilage causes inflammation in the region. As a result, patients may experience complaints such as:
- pain when moving the affected joint, but which improves with rest;
- muscle and joint stiffness, especially when waking up or staying in the same position for a long time (during a trip, for example);
- swelling in the joints, as a reflection of inflammation;
- reduced mobility, which worsens as the disease progresses, making it quite disabling in many circumstances;
- appearance of so-called parrot beaks, deformations in the bone that resemble small bumps.
The diagnosis of osteoarthritis is made by a rheumatologist. In addition to the reported symptoms and clinical evaluation, he or she considers the findings obtained in imaging tests. In most cases, an X-ray is usually sufficient, although MRIs may be more sensitive in early cases.
Treatments
Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition that has no cure. However, several interventions can be prescribed to contain the progression of the condition and reduce the impairment caused by it.
In this way, the doctor can suggest medications that control pain and inflammation , as well as a series of guidelines regarding lifestyle changes necessary to alleviate the reported discomfort.
For regular monitoring and maintenance of comprehensive health care , take advantage of the benefits of the dr.consulta Card , which offers discounts on consultations and exams and much more, whenever you need it.
Basic recommendations of what is good for osteoarthritis
Any measure that does not depend on medication to provide results in controlling the disease is called “non-pharmacological”. Check out some basic guidelines on these approaches:
- weight loss;
- regular physical exercise;
- acupuncture techniques;
- application of heat and cold;
- adjustments to the power supply.
Weight loss
Reducing body mass both reduces the chance of developing osteoarthritis and improves the results obtained with treatments.
With a lower weight, the pressure exerted on joints and cartilage is reduced, alleviating the discomfort caused by the wear and tear of these structures, especially in the knees.
Even small weight loss can have benefits. One study found that a 10% weight loss can be enough to alleviate pain and other symptoms related to the condition.
However, it is essential that there is adequate guidance on how to achieve this goal in a healthy way .
Regular physical exercise
It may not seem to make much sense, but maintaining a routine that ensures constant practice of activities that move the body is also good for osteoarthritis.
At first glance, the reason for this is simple: exercising is a great ally in weight control.
Additionally, strengthening the muscles around the joints can help stabilize the area, reducing pain caused by movement in the cartilage. Thus, minimizing downtime can help alleviate pain and restore mobility to the affected individual in the short term.
In general, practicing sports under these conditions should be guided by the doctor in charge and should be done according to each person’s preferences. In any case, exercises with a lower impact ( such as those done in water ) or even walking can help.
Acupuncture techniques
The approach based on ancient Chinese medicine appears to offer interesting results in improving the quality of life of individuals with osteoarthritis.
By inserting very fine needles into certain points of the body, it is possible to notice relief from joint pain .
Evidence shows that people receiving this treatment experienced a greater reduction in discomfort than those receiving a placebo (a substance with no effect that “tricks” the individual into believing they are receiving a treatment).
If you have any questions regarding the use of acupuncture as a complement to your treatment, talk to your doctor. Finally, it is essential to choose a professional you trust to perform the procedure, even though the risks are small.
Application of heat and cold
The use of hot and cold compresses can help with some aspects of osteoarthritis. The difference in temperatures under the skin in the affected area for a few minutes a day can help reduce the perception of pain and increase joint movement.
For this, you can use gel packs, containers with ice or even heated or cooled towels with water.
However, care must be taken when handling these items, as they can cause injuries or burns if not used correctly. This concern is even greater when you consider that the skin of older people is more sensitive.
Adjustments to the diet
What you put on your plate helps control osteoarthritis. Although no single food can do all this work on its own, this is another important precaution.
Above all, diet is an essential part of weight management and reducing body mass. This concern also contributes to the management of other chronic disorders, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
Additionally, a diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and fiber can reduce the inflammatory state characteristic of osteoarthritis. Personalized guidance can be obtained from a nutritionist .
Of course, what works for osteoarthritis in one person may not work for another, depending on the particularities of each individual. However, following the general guidelines of these recommendations is a valuable first step towards obtaining benefits and having a better life.