Osteoarthritis: A Natural Process

As we journey through life, our bodies experience various changes, and one common transformation is arthritis. Arthritis encompasses over 100 medical conditions affecting the joints, with osteoarthritis (OA) being the most prevalent. While traditionally linked with aging, OA doesn’t discriminate and can affect individuals as young as 45 years old.

Osteoarthritis is NOT ‘Wear and ‘Tear’

In the past, OA was mischaracterised as “degenerative joint disease” or simply “wear and tear.” However, modern research has revealed a deeper truth. OA results from abnormal remodelling of joint tissues driven by inflammatory mediators as the joint tries to heal itself. It primarily affects the knees, hands, and hips, but any joint can be impacted.

Recognising the Symptoms: Understanding Your Body’s Signals

• Some individuals may have OA without noticeable symptoms, while others experience debilitating effects. The main symptoms include: 
  • Muscle weakness 
  • Pain 
  • Joint stiffness 
  • Reduced range of movement 
  • Joint instability 
  • Joint inflammation 
  • Grinding, rubbing, or crunching sensation 

Breaking Down Myths: Navigating the Confusion

Understanding OA can be overwhelming due to the abundance of information and misconceptions. Let’s address some common myths surrounding this condition. 

Myth 1: OA is Inevitable with Age, It’s an Old Person’s Disease 

The odds of having osteoarthritis increase with age, but it is not a ‘normal’ part of aging. OA occurs when cartilage gradually deteriorates, often from mechanical stress or chemical changes related to risk factors such as obesity, family history, previous joint injury, or repetitive use. 

Myth 2: “Everyone Gets It… It’s Not That Serious” 

For some, OA can be quite mild and doesn’t interfere with everyday life. For others, it is hugely debilitating, impacting normal daily activities and increasing falls risk. OA is also a significant risk factor for chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease and diabetes, further impacting quality of life. 

Myth 3: I Can’t Exercise with Joint Pain 

There is no evidence to suggest that exercise makes osteoarthritis worse. Quite the contrary, exercise is a priority treatment method that increases the endurance and strength of muscles supporting the joints as well as maintaining function in the joints, reducing compensation and allows appropriate load and stress to be applied to the cartilage.  

Myth 4: Cracking Your Knuckles Leads to Arthritis 

Scientists have found nothing to suggest that long-term knuckle crackers are at an increased risk of developing hand OA. The popping sound is just an air bubble in the joint fluid bursting. 

Myth 5: You Can’t Prevent OA 

While you can’t change some predisposing risk factors like age, genes, or joint misalignment issues, you can lower your risk by staying active, strengthening the muscles around your joints, improving joint range of movement and maintaining a healthy weight. 

Myth 6: Once You Have OA, Surgery is the Only Option 

There is currently no cure for OA, but symptoms can be managed through exercise, weight loss, physical therapy, and other treatments. Surgery is considered only when conservative management isn’t helping.  Historically we have rested and waited for surgery- this is precisely the opposite approach we should be taking.  

The biggest predictor for successful surgery is how strong you were before the surgery.  We often see our patients avoid surgery by ‘pre-habbing’ their way out of pain.  

Myth 7: My Parents Had OA, So I Will Too 

While the chances of developing OA are greater if your parents had it, regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can decrease your risk.  Genes are the loaded gun, but it is often lifestyle factors that pull the trigger. 

Myth 8: If I Get Surgery, I Don’t Need to Exercise Beforehand 

Preoperative strength determines postoperative recovery. Pre-surgery exercise, or ‘prehabilitation,’ shows significant improvements in recovery, pain, and return to function.  There is no down side to doing pre-hab- you may even find you delay or avoid surgery!

Managing OA: A Holistic Approach

There are numerous treatment options to effectively control OA symptoms and slow its progression. The optimal initial approach involves a blend of weight management, exercise therapy, and education. Adjunct therapies like medication, heat and cold applications, massage, podiatry, and specialised devices can also assist in managing symptoms. 

Exercise: Your Ally in Managing OA 

Exercise is a crucial element in managing OA, offering benefits such as pain reduction, improved mobility, and strengthened supporting muscles. Tailored exercise programs can delay or prevent the need for surgery and improve post-operative recovery. 

The right type of exercise is really important. What works for you, may not work for your friend. The incredible team at O-health ensure that the work you do with us is safe, fun, effective and appropriate. We include a combination of strengthening/resistance training, range of motion/flexibility exercises, aerobic activities, aquatic exercises, yoga, and tai chi in our programs.  

Living with OA-related pain can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. However, understanding how pain works and responding to it can empower you to regain control over your life. Pain should not deter you from exercising; instead, it should guide your approach to avoid overexertion. 

Osteoarthritis is a common condition, but it doesn’t have to define your life. At O-health, we are here to provide the knowledge and support you need to manage your symptoms and continue doing what you love. Remember, you are not alone, and there are many ways to live an active and fulfilling life with OA. 

Suffering from Osteoarthritis? Our team of experts is here to support you every step of the way. Book an appointment here or call us on 02 6021 2777.