DO NOT ALLOW OSTEOARTHRITIS RUIN YOUR LIFE!

Osteoarthritis primarily results from wear and tear on the joints over time. Factors that can contribute to the development of OA include:

• Age: The risk of osteoarthritis increases with age.
• Genetics: A family history of OA can predispose individuals to the condition.
• Joint Injuries: Previous injuries to a joint, such as fractures or ligament tears, can increase the likelihood of developing OA.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts additional stress on weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and hips.
• Repetitive Stress: Jobs or activities that place repetitive stress on certain joints can lead to OA.

The symptoms of osteoarthritis can vary, but they commonly include:

• Pain: Aching or sharp pain in the affected joints, especially after movement or at the end of the day.
• Stiffness: Joint stiffness, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
• Swelling: Swelling around the affected joints.
• Reduced Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the joint through its full range of motion.
• Grating Sensation: A feeling of grating or grinding when moving the joint.

While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, various treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life:

• Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and 
• Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen the muscles around the joint, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.
• Lifestyle Changes: Weight management, regular low-impact exercise, and a healthy diet can alleviate symptoms.
• Assistive Devices: Braces, shoe inserts, or walking aids can help take pressure off affected joints. 

Interventional Treatments: 

• Steroid injections:  involve administering corticosteroids directly into the affected joint to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and improve joint function.
• Viscosupplement Injections: involve injecting hyaluronic acid directly into the joint to provide lubrication, reduce pain, and improve mobility by mimicking the natural fluid in the joint. 
• PRP Injections: involve using the patient's own platelet-rich plasma to promote healing and reduce inflammation in the affected joints, potentially improving mobility and reducing pain. 
• Radiofrequency Ablation: (RFA) for osteoarthritis treatment is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat generated by radio waves to reduce nerve pain by targeting and deactivating specific nerves around the affected joint. 
• Chemical  Neurolysis: involves the injection of a chemical agent to intentionally damage peripheral nerves, providing pain relief by disrupting pain signal transmission. 

In severe cases, surgical procedures such as joint replacement or arthroscopy may be necessary to repair or replace damaged joints.