Osteoarthritis pain relief
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that occurs when the cartilage in your joints breaks down. Cartilage is a tough, flexible tissue that helps protect your joints and bones. When it breaks down, the bones can rub together, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling.
What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?
The most common symptoms of osteoarthritis are:
- Pain in the affected joint
- Stiffness in the affected joint
- Swelling in the affected joint
- Reduced range of motion in the affected joint
- Grating or clicking sound when you move the affected joint
How is osteoarthritis diagnosed?
Osteoarthritis is diagnosed based on a physical exam, your medical history, and X-rays.
How is osteoarthritis treated?
There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but there are treatments that can help relieve the symptoms. These treatments include:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- Prescription pain relievers, such as opioids
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve)
- Corticosteroid injections
- Physical therapy
- Surgery
What are the risk factors for osteoarthritis?
The risk factors for osteoarthritis include:
- Age
- Obesity
- Joint injury
- Family history of osteoarthritis
- Occupation that requires repetitive use of the joints
How can I prevent osteoarthritis?
There is no sure way to prevent osteoarthritis, but there are things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Exercising regularly
- Avoiding joint injuries
- Getting enough calcium and vitamin D
If you have pain, stiffness, or swelling in your joints, see your doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can help relieve the symptoms of osteoarthritis and improve your quality of life.