What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. It's a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Osteoarthritis (OA) can result from several factors, including:
- Age: Increased risk as people get older.
- Joint Injuries: Previous injuries or repetitive stress on joints.
- Obesity: Extra weight adds stress to weight-bearing joints.
- Genetics: Family history can play a role.
- Gender: More common in women, especially after menopause.
- Occupational Hazards: Jobs involving repetitive movements or heavy lifting.
- Poor Posture: Improper alignment can strain joints over time.
- Other Arthritis Types: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can increase OA risk.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes can contribute to OA development.
- Muscle Weakness: Inadequate muscle support can lead to joint misalignment
Understanding these causes can help in managing and potentially reducing the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
Symptoms
- Primarily affects joints in the hands, knees, hips, and spine
- Causes pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion
- Symptoms typically develop slowly and worsen over time
- Can significantly impact quality of life and daily activities
Orthotic Treatment
While there's no cure for OA, various treatments can help manage symptoms:
As orthotists, we play a crucial role in managing OA by providing custom orthoses that can help redistribute pressure, improve joint alignment, and reduce pain. Our goal is to enhance mobility and quality of life for individuals living with osteoarthritis.
