Is also known as OA or degenerative arthritis and is a group of diseases involving degradation of joints, articular cartilage and bone
Cartilage is a tissue which lubricates and cushions joints
OA can have a number of predisposing factors, including: hereditary, mechanical, metabolic and developmental
OA often results in pain which decreases movement and function, leading to wasting of muscles and weakening of structures.
OA affects around 3 million people in Australia, representing about 15% of the population
OA commonly affects hands, feet, the spine and the large weight bearing joints such as hips and knees.
Muscle weakness around an osteoarthritic joint is a common finding
Diabetes, obesity, injury and inflammatory diseases such as gout can promote the development of OA in joints
OA is the leading cause of pain and disability in the elderly
90% of total hip replacements and 95% of total knee replacements are performed for OA in Australia
What you can expect/look out for
Decrease in function of affected joints
Stiffness and swelling
Crepitus or creaking of joints
Hints for self-management
Activity modification to reduce irritation of affected joints
A graduated exercise program to increase strength of the surrounding muscles
Weight management with diet and exercise
Research has shown that exercise is one of the most important treatments for OA of the hip and knee.
Low impact exercises (where there is less impact going through your hips and knees) include water exercise, cycling, walking and strengthening exercises
Strengthening exercises can be prescribed by a physiotherapist or exercise physiologist
Braces/supportive devices for affected areas eg knee brace
Arthroscopy and in the most severe cases joint replacement surgery
Among the 100 different types of arthritis, OA is the most common
OA is more common as we age
Most cases of OA have no known cause and are referred to as primary OA. When the cause is known, the condition is referred to as secondary OA
Repetitive use of worn joints over time can lead to loss of cartilage
Inflammation of cartilage can stimulate new bone growth (spurs and osteophytes) which form around the joint (see below)
At Sydney Sports and Orthopaedic Physiotherapy our highly qualified physiotherapists specialise in the assessment, treatment and prevention of neuromusculoskeletal injuries.
Contact us today - 9252 5770
This handout was prepared by Sydney Sports and Orthopaedic Physiotherapy and is intended as a general information service. Please note that the information provided is not intended as a substitute for advice from a registered physician or healthcare professional. If symptoms persist, please consult your doctor.