About Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common chronic joint disease in Australia, affecting 1 in 8 people.
The disease develops at any age and is a leading cause of pain, disability and early retirement.
Currently there is no cure for osteoarthritis and the number with the disease is expected to soar.
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a common form of arthritis that impacts the entire joint structure, including bones, cartilage, ligaments, and muscles. Previously considered a result of age-related 'wear and tear,' osteoarthritis is now believed to stem from an imbalance between cell breakdown and renewal. In osteoarthritis, joint cells, including cartilage and bone cells, deteriorate faster than they can regenerate, leading to gradual cartilage loss, changes in bone shape, and inflammation. As cartilage degenerates, joint bones can grind against each other, causing pain and, after a period of rest, temporary stiffness and decreased range of motion. Although osteoarthritis can impact any joint in the body, it most frequently affects the:
Knees.
Hips.
Hands (base of the thumb and ends of fingers).
Spine.
Osteoarthritis is most common in adults over the age of 40, but can affect people of any age, particularly those who have had joint injuries, such as a torn ACL or meniscus, obesity, and a family history of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis typically develops slowly over time, however, serious joint injuries can lead to a faster onset.
There is currently no cure for Osteoarthritis, only suggestions to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment options include lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, medication, and surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.
Women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis in Australia - approximately 63% of cases occur in women.
People with osteoarthritis are more likely to develop other health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and depression.
Osteoarthritis is more common in people who have had previous joint injuries, such as sports injuries or fractures.
Symptoms of osteoarthritis
Symptoms of osteoarthritis can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but some of the most common symptoms include:
Joint pain: Pain in the affected joint is the most common symptom of osteoarthritis. The pain may be worse during or after movement and may improve with rest.
Stiffness: You may experience stiffness in the affected joint, especially after periods of inactivity or prolonged sitting.
Swelling: The joint may become swollen and tender to the touch, especially during periods of flare-ups.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Causes of osteoarthritis
While the exact cause of osteoarthritis is not fully understood, there are several factors that are thought to contribute to its development:
Age: Osteoarthritis is more common in older adults.
Genetics: Some people may be more susceptible to osteoarthritis due to genetic factors that affect the structure and composition of their joint tissues.
Obesity: Excess weight puts extra stress on the joints, which can accelerate the breakdown of cartilage.
Joint injury: A previous injury or trauma to a joint can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis in that joint.
Overuse: Repetitive use of a joint can lead to the breakdown of cartilage over time, especially if the joint is subjected to high levels of stress or impact.
Joint deformities: Congenital abnormalities or developmental disorders that affect the shape or alignment of joints can increase the risk of osteoarthritis.
Other medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or metabolic disorders, can increase the risk of osteoarthritis.
Treatments for osteoarthritis
There is currently no cure for osteoarthritis, only suggestions to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment options include:
Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation. Prescription medications, such as corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid injections, may also be recommended by a doctor.
Physical therapy: Exercise and physical therapy can help improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion in the affected joints.
Weight loss: Losing weight can help reduce the pressure on weight-bearing joints, such as the hips and knees, and may improve symptoms.
Assistive devices: Canes, crutches, and braces can help support the affected joint and reduce pain during activities.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to replace the damaged joint with an artificial joint (arthroplasty) or to realign the bones in the affected joint (osteotomy).
It is important to work with a healthcare professional to develop a treatment plan that is appropriate for your individual needs and condition.
Although a cure for osteoarthritis is currently unavailable, we are actively working towards changing that. Through the combined efforts of our dedicated team of researchers and doctors at the University of Sydney and other esteemed institutions around the globe, we have made remarkable progress in our clinical trials towards finding a cure.