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This video provides a comprehensive overview of Osteoarthritis (OA), the most prevalent form of arthritis. It details the causes, common symptoms, and frequently affected joints, emphasizing the impact of cartilage wear and tear. Learn about diagnostic methods and crucial management strategies, including weight maintenance and various treatment options.
Scott Zashin, MD: Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. Over 30 million Americans and 7% of the world's population live with osteoarthritis. The vast majority are over 40 years of age. Osteoarthritis is felt to be natural consequence of aging. But heredity and injury are equal equally strong risk factors. Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage that covers the joint wears away. The joint space narrows, bone spurs form, the joint becomes inflamed and nerve endings are irritated causing pain. People have osteoarthritis complaint of joint pain after activity involving that joint. Morning pain and stiffness are also common but tend to resolve after 15 to 30 minutes. The hands, feet, knees, hips, and spine including neck and low back are the most common areas affected by osteoarthritis. Ocar thr of the hands often strikes the base of the thumb and at the end of the middle joints. It is common the big toe and foot pain is often worsened by tight shoes and heels. When osteoarthritis affects the hips, patients will often complain of groin pain. Hip osteoarthritis can also cause referred pain to the knee.
A diagnosis of osteoarthritis is based on patient history, physical exam, and x-rays. Lab tests are normal. For those with osteoarthritis of the knees and hips, maintaining ideal body weight is important as every extra pound puts four pounds of weight on the knees and hips. Surgical joint replacement is available for patients who do not respond to or have side effects with medical treatment. Medical treatment consists of over-the-counter analesics such as acetaminophen and NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and neproxin as well as topical NSAIDs. Longer acting in NSAIDs and deluxitine are available by prescription. Supplements such as glucosamine sulfate and tart cherries have shown some benefit. Other medical treatment options include joint injection with steroids or hyaluronic acid. LDN is a treatment that's been effective to treat the symptoms of OA, but is not widely used.