Osteoarthritis: Understanding and Relieving Joint Wear

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disease, affecting about 528 million people worldwide. It is characterized by the degradation of articular cartilage, inflammation of the synovial membrane, and remodeling of the subchondral bone. The most affected joints are the knees, hips, hands, and spine.

Risk factors

Age is the primary risk factor (present in 65% of those over 65). Obesity (each extra kg exerts 4 kg of additional pressure on the knees), joint trauma, genetics, female sex after menopause, and certain professional activities increase the risk.

Symptoms

Mechanical pain (increased with effort, relieved at rest), morning stiffness of less than 30 minutes, joint cracking, progressive loss of mobility, and sometimes joint swelling. X-rays show joint space narrowing and osteophytes (bone spurs).

Treatments

Adapted physical exercise (muscle strengthening, aquagym) is the most effective non-pharmacological treatment. Paracetamol and anti-inflammatories relieve pain. Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections provide temporary relief. Joint replacement (knee, hip) is the last resort if medical treatment fails.