Older people more prone to osteoarthritis

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: Dr Lingaraju A.P., the Senior Consultant of Orthopedics and Joint Replacement Surgeon, provided a brief overview of osteoarthritis and the most current treatment options during an online lecture hosted by the Union Hospital on December 21.

The most prevalent type of arthritis, osteoarthritis, affects millions worldwide. Degenerative joint disease (DJD), usually referred to as osteoarthritis, is the most prevalent form of arthritis. As people get older, osteoarthritis is more likely to occur. Though there are occasionally exceptions, osteoarthritis changes often take place gradually over a long period.

Joint inflammation and damage result in bony alterations and the degeneration of tendons, ligaments, and cartilage, which cause pain, swelling, and deformity of the joint. When the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones gradually deteriorates, it happens. Even though osteoarthritis can harm any joint, it most frequently affects the hands, knees, hips, and spine joints. This is more typical in senior citizens.

On being asked what the types of arthritis are, Dr. Lingaraju said, “Primary arthritis, which is the most prevalent, and generalized arthritis are the two forms of arthritis. The spine, hips, knees, great (large) toes, fingers, and thumbs are the main areas affected. Additionally, secondary arthritis develops as a result of another joint problem, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which is also referred to as hypermobility.”

On X-ray, over 80% of men over 55 and women over 40 have signs of osteoarthritis; of these, about 60% have symptoms. Worldwide, 240 million persons are thought to suffer osteoarthritis symptoms. Compared to men, postmenopausal women had a higher incidence of knee osteoarthritis.

While talking about the risk factors for osteoarthritis, Dr. Lingaraju said, “Numerous other risk factors, such as obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, sex, and heredity, raise the likelihood of getting osteoarthritis in addition to age and secondary causes such inflammatory arthritis and prior trauma/injury.”

He added, “Obesity increases the risk of osteoarthritis, especially in the knee. Obesity has been linked to osteoarthritis through its metabolic and pro-inflammatory effects, in addition to taxing the body's weight-bearing systems. For those at risk, maintaining a healthy weight or decreasing excess weight is crucial.

As estrogen is protective of bone health, explicitly lowering oxidative stress to the cartilage, post-menopausal women's decreased estrogen raises the incidence of knee osteoarthritis. As those born with certain bone illnesses or genetic features may be more likely to develop osteoarthritis, heredity can play a part in the development of osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis, for instance, may be exacerbated by conditions like Ehlers-Danlos, characterized by slack or hypermobile joints.” Since primary osteoarthritis has many distinct causes and is not only "wear and tear" arthritis, it is a heterogeneous illness.

Some of the risk factors for OA can be changed, while others cannot. Age is a significant factor, but not all older persons get osteoarthritis, and for those who do, not everyone gets the pain that goes along with it. Both primary cases of osteoarthritis, like nodular OA of the hands, and secondary cases linked to other hereditary illnesses, like hypermobility of joints, can be inherited.

Due to persistent inflammation and joint damage, inflammatory and infectious arthritis can accelerate the onset of secondary osteoarthritis. “Osteoarthritis can also be caused by prior trauma or injuries, particularly sportsrelated and repetitive actions,” said Dr. Lingaraju.

Lastly, when asked how osteoarthritis can be treated, Dr. Lingaraju said, “It is impossible to treat osteoarthritis. A mix of pharmaceutical and non-pharmacological therapies typically controls mild to severe symptoms.

Exercise, alternating hot and cold packs, and physical, occupational, and exercise therapy are all examples of medical treatments and suggestions. If a person is overweight, weight loss is advised. Cholesterol control, diabetes management, and healthy nutrition are also important for some one having osteoarthritis.”