Arthrosis

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Arthrosis

Overview

Arthrosis, commonly known as osteoarthritis, is a degenerative joint disease that primarily affects the cartilage, the smooth tissue covering the ends of bones in a joint. Over time, the cartilage wears down, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the affected joint. Arthrosis commonly occurs in weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine, as well as in the hands. It is a progressive condition that may eventually affect joint function and quality of life.

Symptoms

The symptoms of arthrosis vary depending on the severity of the condition and the joints affected:

 

    1. Joint pain during or after movement
    2. Stiffness, particularly after periods of inactivity or upon waking
    3. Swelling and tenderness around the joint
    4. Loss of flexibility and difficulty moving the joint fully
    5. Grinding or grating sensation during movement
    6. Bone spurs, or extra bits of bone that form around the affected joint, may develop in advanced stages

When to see a doctor?

Consult a doctor if you experience:

  1. Persistent joint pain or swelling that limits daily activities
  2. Stiffness that doesn’t improve with gentle movement or worsens over time
  3. Difficulty using the joint, such as walking, climbing stairs, or gripping objects
  4. Limited joint flexibility that impacts quality of life

Causes

Arthrosis occurs due to the gradual breakdown of cartilage in the joints. Some common causes include:

  1. Wear and tear: Over time, joints endure a lot of stress, leading to cartilage breakdown.
  2. Joint injuries: Past injuries, even if healed, can increase the risk of developing arthrosis in that joint.
  3. Repetitive stress: Occupations or sports that involve repetitive movements or heavy lifting put excess pressure on certain joints.
  4. Genetics: Certain genetic traits may make some individuals more susceptible to cartilage degeneration.

Risk Factors

Several factors increase the likelihood of developing arthrosis:

  1. Age: Arthrosis is more common in individuals over the age of 50.
  2. Gender: Women are more likely to develop arthrosis than men, particularly after menopause.
  3. Obesity: Excess weight adds stress to weight-bearing joints, particularly the knees and hips, accelerating cartilage wear.
  4. Joint injuries: Injuries sustained from sports or accidents may lead to arthrosis over time.
  5. Genetic predisposition: A family history of arthrosis can increase the risk.
  6. Occupational and physical demands: Jobs that require repetitive joint use or heavy lifting can put strain on joints, leading to cartilage damage.

Prevention

While arthrosis cannot always be prevented, certain lifestyle changes can reduce the risk:

 

  1. Maintain a healthy weight: Reducing excess weight can alleviate stress on joints, especially the knees and hips.
  2. Stay active: Regular, low-impact exercises like swimming, walking, and cycling help maintain joint flexibility and strength.
  3. Strengthen muscles around joints: Strong muscles provide better support for joints, reducing the risk of injury and wear.
  4. Use proper techniques: When lifting heavy objects or engaging in repetitive movements, use proper techniques to avoid unnecessary stress on joints.
  5. Protect joints: Wear protective gear during high-impact activities and avoid repetitive stress on the same joints.