Moderate to Severe Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common and debilitating chronic joint disorder that affects tens of millions of Americans each year, especially those who are older. It is believed to be related to age-related wear-and-tear on joints. The disorder causes deterioration of the cartilage, the flexible tissue that lines the joints, allowing them to move more easily. As cartilage deteriorates, the bones of the affected joint rub against each other, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness.

Moderate to severe Osteoarthritis affects around 24 million Americans. Symptoms include pain and stiffness in the joints, especially in the hands, knees, hips and feet. Other signs of moderate to severe Osteoarthritis include:

Swelling in the joints
Difficulty moving the joints
Loss of motion in the affected joints
Redness in the painful area
Grinding or cracking sound when the joint moves

The exact cause of moderate to severe Osteoarthritis is unknown. However, it most likely involves a combination of factors, including genetics, age, sex, weight and lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise and smoking. Moderate to severe Osteoarthritis is most common in women and in those over the age of 50.

Treatment for moderate to severe Osteoarthritis typically includes medications to help reduce pain and inflammation, as well as physical and occupational therapy to help maintain joint mobility and strengthen the muscles around the joint. In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to repair or replace the joint.

Although Osteoarthritis cannot be cured, there are some steps people can take to reduce and manage symptoms. These include regular exercise to maintain joint flexibility and strengthen the muscles, maintaining a healthy body weight, and avoiding activities that place extra stress on the joints.