What is Osteoarthritis Treatment?
Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage tissue in the knee becomes damaged and weakened due to various factors. Since cartilage tissue has a limited capacity for self-repair, this damage usually does not heal. It is most commonly seen with advancing age, particularly in individuals over 50. Women, overweight individuals, and women in the menopausal period are at higher risk.
Causes:
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Aging
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Excess weight
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Muscle weakness
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Trauma (accidents, falls, injuries)
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Rheumatic diseases
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Previous knee infections
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Genetic predisposition
Symptoms:
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Pain after prolonged walking or standing
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Increased pain when climbing stairs
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Swelling, stiffness, and deformity in the knee
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A sensation of cracking or catching
Treatment:
In the early stages, non-surgical methods are preferred:
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Exercises to strengthen knee muscles
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Physiotherapy
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Weight management
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Medication
In advanced cases, or when conservative treatments are unsuccessful, total knee replacement surgery may be required.
Hip Osteoarthritis
Hip osteoarthritis may develop due to aging and excess weight, as well as factors such as hip fractures, long-term corticosteroid use, and childhood rheumatic diseases. It occurs when the cartilage tissue that forms the hip joint wears down over time.
Ankle Osteoarthritis
Although it can occur at any age, ankle osteoarthritis is most commonly seen in older adults. Previous injuries significantly increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis. Early diagnosis is crucial, as there is no complete cure; however, progression of the disease can be slowed and symptoms can be effectively managed.
General Treatment Methods
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Medication (to reduce pain and swelling)
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Use of orthopedic and soft shoes
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Support with an ankle brace
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Reducing load by using a cane
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Physical therapy and exercises
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Weight control and nutritional supplements
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Intra-articular drug injections
In advanced cases, surgical intervention may be required. Surgery usually provides positive outcomes, allowing patients to return to their daily lives with ease. The type of surgical procedure may vary depending on the severity and location of osteoarthritis.
Symptoms:
Pain (especially during movement, and in advanced stages, even at rest)
Swelling and stiffness
Limited range of motion in the joint
Cracking, catching, or deformity in the joint
Difficulty while walking or bearing weight on the foot
Frequently Asked Questions:
The accumulation of calcium salts in body tissues is called calcification. It usually occurs during bone formation; however, calcium may abnormally accumulate in soft tissues, causing them to harden.
- If left untreated, calcification can cause severe movement restrictions and pain in the joints. It may even prevent the individual from carrying out daily activities.
- There is no definitive cure for calcification; however, different methods can be applied to manage its symptoms. Doctors may prescribe certain medications to relieve joint pain and inflammation. Physical therapy helps to alleviate the symptoms, while in some patients, surgical treatment methods may be required.
Medically known as osteoarthritis, calcification is a condition in which the joint cartilage becomes worn and can no longer function properly. If the cartilage structure of the hip joint is damaged or deteriorates in any way, it loses its smoothness, leading to pain and restricted movement.
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