The doctor may also recommend arthroscopy to see inside the joint space and view damage and abnormalities as well as perform small repairs. A thorough medical history and physical examination will always be included. Doctors will note bony enlargements, spur formations, and bunions which can help with the diagnosis of OA.
Treatment for OA is joint and symptom specific. Because there is not a cure at this time for degeneration of the cartilage, doctors will recommend specific protocols that have been found to assist with the inflammation and progressive degeneration. Those who are overweight will find significant relief with weight loss. The joint should be rested, which is alternated with exercise that is recommended by a physical therapist. The objective of the exercise is to spare the joint but increase the strength of the muscles which support it to reduce the pain and discomfort. (3)
The doctor will begin with over the counter anti-inflammatory medications to reduce the pain and discomfort. Some individuals find relief from moist heat over the area while others appreciate the use of ice. It is a personal choice that is made based on the results of the treatment.
Individuals who suffer from OA can also benefit from dietary supplement glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. The application of both supplements together in pill form has been found in some research to slow the degeneration process and relieve pain. Individuals who choose to take these supplements should wait at least 2 months to see any results from them.
For those who do not find enough relief from glucosamine and chondroitin, another type of dietary supplementation are fish oils. These also have some anti-inflammatory properties. Look for Omega-3 capsules from a reputable supplement company. (4)
Individuals who suffer from osteoarthritis in their hands may also get significant pain relief by dipping their hands in hot wax in the morning. This particular type of treatment can be purchased at local pharmacies or medical supply stores. The wax can be reused after it hardens and it’s just peeled off and replaced back into the melted wax. Warm water soaks in nighttime cotton gloves can also help the symptoms of osteoarthritis in the hands.
The future for individuals who suffer from osteoarthritis continues to brighten each year. Recently researchers discovered medications which have decreased the degenerative effects of individuals who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. Research scientists have also found specific medications which are currently FDA approved for other uses now are known to slow the progression of cartilage degeneration in the knees of individuals who suffer from osteoarthritis.
References:
(1) Rheumatic Diseases Clinics of North America: The Symptoms of Osteoarthritis and the Genesis of Pain
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18687276
(2) MayoClinic: Osteoarthritis: Risk Factors
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/osteoarthritis/DS00019/DSECTION=risk-factors
(3) National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability: Osteoarthritis and Exercise
http://www.ncpad.org/107/818/Osteoarthritis~and~Exercise
(4) University of Maryland Medical Center: Osteoarthritis
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/osteoarthritis-000118.htm
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