Osteoarthritis

A degenerative disease effecting the entire joint, including the bone, cartilage, ligaments and synovium. It is characterised by degradation of articular cartilage, development of osteophytes, and nonspecific inflammation of the synovial membrane (synovitis). In an unhealthy joint, the cartilage is weak, with increased synovial fluid (Thoenen, 2021). Furthermore, continuous heavy use of articular joints promotes the erosion of underlying articulating surfaces.

Effects the musculoskeletal system in various ways:

Ligaments can become torn, stretched or weakened.
Tendon inflammation or irritation (tendinitis), with symptoms of pain, swelling, loss of mobility and weakened joint strength.
Bursae inflammation or irritation (bursitis).

Did you know...

It is reported that women account for 60% of osteoarthritis globally (Segal, 2024). Influenced through hormonal fluctuations with menstruation, where there are depleted levels of oestrogen.

Additionally, while women and men share the same joints, certain musculoskeletal differences exist, altering an individual’s gait and how joint articulation occurs (Bracilovic, 2021).

Diagnosis

Who?

Aged 45 or over
Joint pain that worsens with continued use.
Stiffness of joints that are not apparent in the morning
Prolonged stiffness (lasting longer than 30 minutes)

Process

Physical and medical examination
X-ray, MRI, blood tests
Joint aspiration

Treatment

Osteoarthritis is a long term condition that is uncurable. Symptoms develop progressively, sometimes rendering the joint unusable or perpetual pain (Arthritisfoundation, n.d.). In contrast, symptoms can gradually improve with various treatments; continuous exercise, using arthritic aids (knee or wrist braces), ultimately reducing joint stress. For greater severity, medicinal intervention and specific exercised plans can reduce the degradation and ultimate worsening of joints.