OA arthritis treatment in Türkiye

What is OA arthritis?

OA arthritis is the most common form of arthritis. This degenerative joint disease or “wear” arthritis is also called and occurs most often in the hands, hips, and knees. When the cartilage inside a joint begins to break down and the underlying bone begins to change. The disease usually develops slowly and gets worse over time. OA arthritis can cause pain. Stiffness, swelling, and may also cause impairment of function and, in some cases, disability, meaning people are unable to perform daily tasks or work.

What are the signs and symptoms of OA arthritis?

• Pain and aches.
• lockjaw.
• Low range of motion.
• swelling

What causes OA arthritis?

OA is caused by damage or breakdown of the joint cartilage between the bones.

What are the risk factors for arthritis?

• Age: The risk of developing arthritis increases with age.
• Gender: Women are more likely to develop arthritis than men, especially after the age of fifty.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts more pressure on the joints, especially on weight-bearing joints such as the hips and knees, which increases the risk of developing arthritis in this joint. Obesity may also have metabolic effects that increase the risk of developing arthritis.
• Genetics: People who have family members with arthritis are more likely to develop osteoarthritis, and people who have hand arthritis are more likely to develop knee arthritis.
• Race: Some Asian populations have a lower risk of developing arthritis.
• Injuries: Arthritis may occur due to injury or overuse of the joint, such as bending the knee and repetitive pressure on the joint.

How is arthritis diagnosed?

Arthritis is diagnosed by reviewing symptoms, a physical examination, x-rays, and laboratory tests. A rheumatologist ( a doctor who specializes in arthritis and other related conditions) helps support the diagnosis and answer any questions about the disease.

How is arthritis treated?

There is no cure for arthritis, so doctors treat arthritis symptoms with a range of treatments, which may include the following:

• Increased physical activity
• Physical therapy with muscle strengthening exercises
• Weight loss
• Medications such as over-the-counter and prescription pain relievers.
• Supportive devices such as crutches or canes.
• Surgery if other treatment options are not effective.

People with osteoarthritis can relieve symptoms by following self-management strategies. These strategies help reduce pain and disability so that people with osteoarthritis can continue with activities.

Self-management strategies:

• Learn self-management skills: Joining a self-management class helps them understand how arthritis affects patients’ lives and increase their confidence in controlling their symptoms and living well.
• Continuous physical activity: Experts recommend that adults engage in at least 150 minutes per week of moderate physical activity. In addition to moderate, low-impact activities such as walking, swimming or cycling, regular physical activity can also reduce the risk of other chronic diseases such as heart disease , stroke and diabetes.
• Going to specialized physical activity programs: Participation in physical activity programs helps reduce pain and disability associated with arthritis and improves mood and ability to move.
• Follow-up with the doctor: Attending regular appointments with the doctor helps in controlling arthritis through continuous consultation, correct medical guidance, and following the recommended treatment plan, especially if you suffer from other chronic conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease .
• Weight loss: For people who are overweight or obese, losing weight reduces pressure on joints, especially weight-bearing joints such as the hips and knees. Achieving or maintaining a healthy weight can relieve pain, improve function, and slow the progression of arthritis.
• Joint protection: Joint injuries can cause or worsen arthritis, so choose activities that are easy on the joints, such as walking, cycling, and swimming. These activities are low-impact, have a low risk of injury, and don’t twist or put too much stress on your joints.

The medical staff of surgical teams, doctors and consultants in REHABTÜRK can provide the best treatment options and free consultations – by striving to keep abreast of the latest medical technologies and methods.

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