Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis Latest News

In a promising breakthrough, scientists at Stanford University recently identified a key protein called 15-PGDH linked to cartilage loss during aging, offering hope for new treatments for osteoarthritis.

About Osteoarthritis

• Arthritis is a general term that means inflammation of the joints.
• Osteoarthritis (OA), commonly known as wear-and-tear arthritis, is the most common type of arthritis.
• What Causes OA?
  • It is associated with a breakdown of cartilage in joints.
  • Cartilage is a firm, rubbery material that covers the ends of bones in normal joints. 
  • Its main function is to reduce friction in the joints and serve as a “shock absorber.
  • The shock-absorbing quality of normal cartilage comes from its ability to change shape when compressed (flattened or pressed together).
  • Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage in a joint to become stiff and lose its elasticity, making it more susceptible to damage. 
  • Over time, the cartilage may wear away in some areas, greatly decreasing its ability to act as a shock absorber. 
  • As the cartilage deteriorates, tendons and ligaments stretch, causing pain. 
  • If the condition worsens, the bones could rub against each other.
• It commonly occurs in the weight-bearing joints of the hips, knees, and spine. 
• It also affects the fingers, thumbs, neck, and large toe.
• It usually does not affect other joints unless previous injury, excessive stress, or an underlying disorder of cartilage is involved.
• It is more likely to develop as people age. But it can affect much younger people, too, especially those who have had a prior joint injury.
• Symptoms: Symptoms of osteoarthritis most often develop gradually and include:
  • Joint aching and soreness, especially with movement
  • Pain after overuse or after long periods of inactivity
  • Stiffness after periods of rest
  • Bony enlargements in the middle and end joints of the fingers (which may or may not be painful)
  • Joint swelling
• Treatment: 
  • Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis, there are many treatment options available to help manage pain and keep people active.
  • As a last resort, a damaged joint may be surgically fused or replaced with one made of a combination of metal, plastic, and/or ceramic.

Source: NDTV

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