Both issues can be addressed with the help of some ‘grease’ to help smoothen the movement if the issue is addressed at an early stage or if the problem is more severe, it will need to be replaced.
Though, the only (and biggest) difference is of course, the use of materials to fix the problem. While lubricant or a set of new hinges are options to fix a squeaking door, medications and knee replacement surgery could help with ‘squeaking’ joints.
So, to shed some light on this issue, Pharmacist at Unicare Phamacy in Petaling Jaya, Edna Loh addresses the issue of Osteoarthritis.
1. In your opinion, what is the most common age group that is being affected by osteoarthritis (OA) in our community?
Edna: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a painful degenerative condition where the cartilage that protects the end of our bones starts to wear out; simply put it, it is the “wear and tear” of our joints.
OA is most common in adults aged 60 and above. However, we are seeing an increasing trend whereby OA affects adults as early as in their 40s. There can be a few explanations as to why someone can have OA early. Being overweight or obese is one of the main reasons.
2. What are the early symptoms of OA?
Edna: They include:
- Joint pain – 7 out of 10 people we encounter with OA complain about knee pain and the severity of it varies in every individual. Other joint areas affected are the hip, wrist and fingers.
- Joint stiffness – usually in the morning
- Difficulty moving the joint
- Swelling of joint – Redness of the skin around the joint and swelling may be a sign that the joint is inflamed and requires immediate attention, but people may sometimes disregard this as water retention. If there is swelling for three days or longer, it is advisable to pay a visit to the doctor.
3. What are the treatment options for people with early stages of OA?
Edna: The main aim of treatment is to manage symptoms such as pain, stiffness, swelling and joint immobility. They include:
- Over the counter pain medications and anti-inflammatory medications are prescribed to reduce pain and joint swelling quickly.
- Joint lubricating creams or gels are quite popular nowadays. They are believed to have lubricating and anti-inflammatory effect to the joint upon application, and acts as a good non-drug pain relief to OA. These solutions commonly contain a variety of active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, boswellia serrata resin, green-lipped mussel extract and glycosaminoglycans.
- Assistive devices such as shoe orthotics, walkers, and splints to help with mobility.
- Moving regularly and eating well to maintain a healthy weight are also critical components of the treatment plan.
- Alternative therapies are quite popular to manage early OA as well. Examples of alternative therapies include nutritional supplements, relaxation techniques, acupuncture and massages.
4. Can the symptoms be reversed?
Most studies have commented that there is no cure for OA, as it is an age-related disease. However, emerging evidence now challenge against that statement and found symptoms of early stage OA can be well managed, or possibly even reversed, with intensive combination of physical therapy, nutritional intervention and medications.
5. What are the types of food that should be avoided for a person with OA?
Edna: Evidence did not find food that can directly exacerbate OA. Having said that, food high in sugar and fat can lead to unintended weight gain, and this can speed up the progression of OA.
On a more positive note, research shows that a high fibre diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans and whole grains can halve the risk of OA. Additionally, another study found that people with OA who eat dietary fibre as high as 30 grams each day experience 30 percent lesser pain.
6. How can one stop the progression of OA?
Edna:
- The first step towards change is awareness, the second step is acceptance. One must understand that OA treatments are trying to manage changes outside and within the joints, and this does not happen instantly and may take some time. Therefore, it is crucial that the person is compliant to treatment plans prescribed by health professionals.
- Massage, physical therapy and rehabilitation are common non-drug methods to manage OA.
- Repair of cartilage requires nutrients from surrounding tissues. Chondroprotective nutrients such as chondroitin and glucosamine may help strengthen cartilage and improve joint health.
- Control inflammation with medications and another group of nutrients that contain anti-inflammatory properties. These nutrients are antioxidants and Omega-3 fatty acids.
7. Is this condition hereditary?
Edna: A person is more likely to develop OA if there is a strong family history of OA. Studies have found genetic factors that can affect the body’s production of collagen, which is the protein that makes up cartilage.
Population studies have confirmed that being overweight and obese can increase risk of knee OA by 2.6 times. Besides that, previous knee trauma and age are also main factors. Studies also show that women are 1.8 times more likely to develop OA than men.
8. What are some of the recommended exercises for people with OA?
Edna: Exercises are found to be one of the most effective non-drug methods to reduce pain and improve movement for people with OA. It should be a combination of aerobic, flexibility and strengthening exercises. Speak to your Doctor or a Physiotherapist for exercise regimens tailored to your individual needs.
9. What is your advice to individuals diagnosed with OA at an early stage?
Edna: I strongly urge for a change of lifestyle. There is already documented evidence on how good nutritional practices and regular exercises can lower risk of OA. OA should not be viewed as an impending disability. This would be the best time to be proactive and seek for help from health professionals such as Doctor, Pharmacist, Dietitian, Physiotherapist and Chiropractor. We can help you set achievable goals, and discuss effective pain management strategies.
