Osteoarthritis is a common joint disorder that affects mostly elderly people. However, it can also affect people of different ages, particularly those who have suffered joint injuries in the past or who are overweight.

Osteoarthritis can be debilitating if not diagnosed and treated early enough. Understanding the causes and early symptoms of this condition can help you to take necessary precautions or seek appropriate treatment options.

Causes of Osteoarthritis

The exact cause of osteoarthritis is not known, but many factors are known to contribute to its development. These include:.

Age: The risk of developing osteoarthritis increases with age
Joint injuries or trauma: Injuries or trauma to joints can lead to the development of osteoarthritis later in life. This includes injuries that occur during sports activities or accidents
Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of osteoarthritis, especially in the knees and hips
Genetics: Osteoarthritis can run in families. If a close family member has the disease, you are more likely to develop it
Repetitive strain: Certain repetitive strain jobs and activities can contribute to the development of osteoarthritis, especially in the wrists, elbows and shoulders.

Early Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

Early signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis include:.

Pain: The most common symptom of osteoarthritis is pain in the affected joint. The pain usually worsens when you move the joint or at the end of the day
Stiffness: You may experience stiffness in the affected joint, especially after periods of inactivity
Swelling: The joint may become swollen and tender to the touch
Clicking or cracking sound: You may hear a clicking or cracking sound when you move the affected joint
Reduced range of motion: As the disease progresses, you may experience a reduced range of motion in the affected joint, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks such as bending, lifting or walking.

Diagnosing Osteoarthritis

If you experience any of the early signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis, you should consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis. The doctor will perform a physical examination of the affected joint and take your medical history.

They may also perform an X-ray or MRI scan to look for any damage to the joint or surrounding tissues.

Treatment Options for Osteoarthritis

Treatment for osteoarthritis involves managing the symptoms and preventing the damage to the joint from worsening. The following treatment options are available:.

Pain relief: Over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help to relieve pain and reduce inflammation
Exercise: Low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming or cycling can help to improve joint strength and flexibility
Weight loss: Losing weight can help to reduce the pressure on the affected joints
Physical therapy: A physical therapist can recommend exercises to improve joint mobility and provide helpful tips on managing pain and stiffness
Surgery: In severe cases, joint replacement surgery may be necessary to replace the damaged joint with a prosthetic joint.