Osteoarthritis: What You Should Know About This Common Joint Disease

They say age “40 is the new 30” which is a compliment to our modern era where looks, attitude, and activity level compares well with a younger cohort. Technology has also created new dimensions to our lifestyle and careers but ultimately we all have to face the fact that age is more than just a number. It is estimated that more than 90% of the population 40 years of age and older are affected by osteoarthritis (Ebersole & Hess, 2001). Aging is a natural part of life and some of the most obvious part of aging occurs from within our musculoskeletal system. Changes in stature are due to loss of bone density in long bones and lumbar areas of the spine leading to a reduction in height. Transformation in muscles mass, bone structure, and body shape are visible concerns for person affected by arthritis. Joint bone degeneration is the most common cause of osteoarthritis in pre-middle aged adults and older. For some fortunate persons, they may not experience signs or symptoms of the disease until much later in years. Who Are More Susceptible To Osteoarthritis Debilitating EffectsrnEventually we will all have osteoarthritis, if we live long enough. Both males and females are equally affected. There are persons; however, who are more susceptible to getting this degenerative joint disease earlier and develop more severe symptoms than others. They include: • Athletes [high impact exercise that wear and calcify the cartilage] • Menopausal women [decrease estrogen results in bone and density loss] • Obese persons [extra stress on bones & joints) • Heredity/familial tendency [knobby fingers have been linked to genetic factors) Areas of the Body Commonly AffectedrnBecause of bone tissue deterioration, the joints become less elastic with the loss and calcification (hardening; bone spur} of cartilage (flexible connective tissue; gristle). Joints more commonly affected include: • All joints of the fingers [interphalangeals] • Wristsrn• Kneesrn• Hips • spinernWarning Signs and SymptomsrnThe onset of osteoarthritis, include: • A reduction in range of motion (ROM) of joints areasrn• Stiffness, swelling, redness, and pain with movementrn• Limping, numbness or tingling in limbsrn• Change in symmetry and skeletal contoursrn• Muscle weakness, tremors, spasms, clumsiness, and muscle aches 4 Effective Guides to Managing the Signs & Symptoms of OsteoarthritisrnLearn combative measures to manage chronic onslaughts associated with osteoarthritis. It is a debilitating disease that affects your functionality, lifestyle, and self –esteem. Here are 4 guides you can use: 1. Calcium with Vitamin DrnBoth nutrients are needed for strong bones. Several published studies have shown the benefits of calcium and vitamin D in reducing bone loss and fractures. Persons 31-50 years should take calcium supplements of 1,000 milligrams (National Academy of Sciences, 2010). 2. Glucosamine & Zyflammed SupplementsrnPain and inflammation are predictable episodes of osteoarthritis. Instead of taking daily over the counter analgesics that can increase the risk of other diseases, natural alternatives are best used. Information and reviews exist on the web that will provide detailed information on glucosamine sulfate and Zyflammed supplements and dosage. 3. ExercisernThere have been controversy surrounding exercise and arthritis; regardless, an active lifestyle should always be maintained for all age groups. Exercise helps to prevent the joints from “freezing” and the muscles from weakening. It also helps in weight gain control. 4. Weight controlrnMechanically, for every 1 pound gain in weight, the force is increased to 2-3 pounds in the joints. Weight control is an important part of reducing the chronic effects of arthritis. As we get older we become more vulnerable to the dynamics of our lifestyle. Our bodies no longer respond as quickly to disease threats; instead, it slows down its innate design of healing and restoration. My greatest fear of aging is the loss of quality of life; I want to continue able-bodied and capable of carrying out my activities of daily living. Being blessed can afford us such benefits later in years, by living healthy now.