Complication & Risk Factors of Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a condition that occurs when the cartilage in the joints wears down. This can affect many parts of the body such as the hands, neck, lower back, knees, and hips. Unfortunately, this can also cause further complications.
Other People Are Reading
-
Causes
-
The main causes of this condition are aging, injury to the joints, genetics, muscle weakness, or obesity. Injury and obesity put increased strain on joints, while aging wears down the cartilage over time. It is also hereditary and can be passed down from parent to child.
Symptoms
-
Some of the symptoms of osteoarthritis include joint pain, stiffness, tenderness, loss of flexibility, bone spurs and a grating sensation.
-
Risk Factors
-
A person is more prone to osteoarthritis depending on their age, sex, weight, occupation, and health. Women are more prone to developing this condition, as are those with excessive weight. An occupation that puts strain on joints can assist in the development of osteoarthritis. Certain health conditions such as bone deformities, injuries and certain diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis also pose a risk.
Complications
-
The main complication that arises from this condition is complete disability. As osteoarthritis worsens, it can make it impossible to move around easily, if at all.
Treatments
-
Although there is no cure for this condition, most doctors prescribe pain medication to help deal with the pain. Joint replacement surgery is sometimes necessary.
-
