Is osteoarthritis serious?

Written by Cheng Bin

Orthopedics

Updated on September 24, 2024

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Regarding the severity of osteoarthritis, it is mainly determined by the clinical symptoms of the patient's osteoarthritis. If the osteoarthritis is only manifested by localized pain, and there is no obvious impact on walking, going up stairs, or going downhill, this means that the osteoarthritis is not very severe. However, if the local swelling and pain of the osteoarthritis are very severe, with considerable pain when going up or down stairs, and if there is popping of the joint or symptoms of entrapment, and the joint has already shown obvious deformation affecting the patient's normal functions, then it indicates that the condition is quite severe. In such cases, it is necessary to proactively consider arthroscopic surgery or artificial joint replacement therapy.

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Written by Kuang Tao

Orthopedics

46sec

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How to reduce swelling in osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis often presents with swelling, most commonly seen in knee osteoarthritis. The swelling occurs because of inflammation. For example, if knee arthritis is accompanied by synovitis, it will become swollen and the local temperature will be relatively high. To reduce swelling, the first measure is immobilization, meaning you should avoid bearing weight or moving, and lie in bed without bending the joint, which can help decrease the swelling. Second, you can apply heat, using a hot water bottle or heated salt for heat therapy. Third, if there is fluid accumulation in the joint cavity, draining this fluid can also reduce swelling. Fourth, physical therapy, acupuncture, and massage can all help reduce swelling.

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Written by Li Jin

Orthopedics

59sec

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Characteristics of osteoarthritis pain

The characteristics of pain in patients with osteoarthritis mainly manifest as pain occurring frequently in the morning, which lessens after activity. However, if the activity is excessive, the pain can worsen. Another symptom is joint stiffness, which often occurs when getting up in the morning or after the joint has been in a certain position for a long time during the day. The affected joint may show symptoms such as swelling, pain, and a feeling of friction during movement. In severe cases, patients may experience muscle atrophy and joint deformity. Patients with osteoarthritis should pay attention to rest and avoid vigorous activities. They should use anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs, as well as drugs that nourish the cartilage, to improve symptoms. When conservative treatment is ineffective and joint deformity or functional impairment occurs, joint replacement surgery may also be considered as a treatment option.

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Written by Cheng Bin

Orthopedics

44sec

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Osteoarthritis complications

In clinical practice, there are many complications associated with osteoarthritis, mainly reflected in the following aspects. First, the presence of osteoarthritis causes the joints to exhibit obvious symptoms of swelling and pain. Often due to the pain and swelling, patients are reluctant to move, and prolonged inactivity can lead to joint stiffness and significant muscle atrophy in the affected areas. Second, osteoarthritis often leads to the extensive detachment of joint cartilage, making it easy for free bodies to form within the joint. Third, the presence of osteoarthritis may lead to the development of bursitis in patients. Fourth, osteoarthritis can also cause damage to the meniscus.

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Written by Guan Yu Hua

Orthopedic Surgery

1min 17sec

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Is soaking feet good for osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis can benefit from soaking the feet in warm water, slightly hotter if possible, as the feet have numerous nerves. This can promote blood circulation and facilitate metabolism, such as the elimination of bodily waste, which is beneficial, especially for middle-aged and elderly people, in preventing cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Osteoarthritis depends on the location and is a chronic joint disease. Its primary pathological change is the degenerative alteration of the joint cartilage. Typically, this condition affects middle-aged and older individuals, more so women than men. Early changes include the deterioration of the joint cartilage, leading to the exposure of the subchondral bone, which can then cause periostitis, changes in the joint capsule, and surrounding muscles. Usually, it presents as rest pain, which may decrease with light activity. Treatment often involves nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or intra-articular injections of sodium hyaluronate for lubrication and joint protection. In severe cases, joint replacement, such as knee replacement, may be necessary. Thus, soaking the feet can be beneficial for those with osteoarthritis.

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Written by Cheng Bin

Orthopedics

42sec

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Is hot compress good for osteoarthritis?

For patients with osteoarthritis, hot compresses are very effective. Hot compresses can promote local blood circulation, which can effectively alleviate the clinical symptoms of osteoarthritis. Usually, hot compresses are applied using hot water bottles, or by heating bran or salt, which are very effective. Typically, apply the hot compress twice a day, each time for more than half an hour. Additionally, aside from hot compresses, it is important to protect the affected area in patients with osteoarthritis, avoid exposure to cold, and reduce irritation to the area. When necessary, treatment may also need to be supplemented with medications, such as pain relievers and drugs that nourish the cartilage.