Osteoarthritis: Why it’s more common in females?

Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints gradually breaks down, causing the bones to rub against each other. This can lead to pain, stiffness, swelling, and difficulty in movement.

It is more common in older adults, but it can also affect younger people, especially those who have had injuries to the joints or who have a family history of the condition.

There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but treatments can help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. These treatments can include medication, exercise, physical therapy, weight loss, and surgery in some cases.

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Symptoms:-

Some common symptoms of osteoarthritis include:

• Pain: The pain may be mild or severe, and it may be worse after activities that put stress on the joint, such as walking or climbing stairs.

• Stiffness: Stiffness in the affected joint, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity, is another common symptom of osteoarthritis. The stiffness may improve with movement.

• Swelling: Swelling or tenderness in the affected joint can occur due to inflammation.

• Decreased range of motion: Osteoarthritis can limit the range of motion of the affected joint, making it difficult to perform daily activities.

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• Clicking or cracking sounds: Sometimes, the affected joint may make a clicking or cracking sound when it is moved.

• Bone spurs: Osteoarthritis can cause the growth of bone spurs around the affected joint, which can be felt as hard bumps under the skin.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Causes of osteoarthritis

The exact cause of osteoarthritis is not fully understood, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Some common causes of osteoarthritis include:

• Age: Osteoarthritis is more common in older adults, as the cartilage in the joints wears down over time.

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• Joint injury: Injuries to the joints, such as a fracture or a ligament tear, can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis later in life.

• Overuse: Repeated use of a joint, especially for high-impact activities like running or jumping, can wear down the cartilage and lead to osteoarthritis.

• Obesity: Excess weight puts extra stress on the joints, particularly in the hips and knees, which can lead to osteoarthritis.

• Genetics: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to developing osteoarthritis, although the specific genes involved are not yet fully understood.

• Other health conditions: Certain health conditions, such as diabetes, gout, and rheumatoid arthritis, can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.

It is important to note that while these factors can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis, not everyone who has these risk factors will develop the condition.

Treatment of osteoarthritis:

The treatment of osteoarthritis aims to manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Some common treatments for osteoarthritis include:

• Medications: Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation in the affected joint.

• Physical therapy: A physical therapist can work with you to develop exercises and stretches to help improve the strength and flexibility of the affected joint.

• Weight loss: Losing weight can help reduce the stress on the affected joint, particularly in the hips and knees.

• Assistive devices: Assistive devices such as braces, canes, or shoe inserts can help reduce the pressure on the affected joint and improve mobility.

• Alternative therapies: Some people find relief from osteoarthritis symptoms through alternative therapies such as acupuncture or massage therapy.

It is important to work with a healthcare professional to develop a personalised treatment plan based on your individual needs and symptoms.

How to prevent Osteoarthritis?

Although there are no definite ways to prevent osteoarthritis, but here are some steps that you can take to reduce your risk of developing this condition. Some tips for preventing osteoarthritis include:

• Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help keep your joints healthy and strong, reducing the risk of osteoarthritis. 

• Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight puts extra stress on your joints, particularly in the hips and knees, which can increase the risk of osteoarthritis. 

• Avoid joint injuries: Injuries to the joints, such as a fracture or a ligament tear, can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis later in life. Take steps to avoid injuries, such as wearing appropriate protective gear during sports or exercise.

• Eat a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help keep your joints healthy and reduce the risk of osteoarthritis.

• Protect your joints: Take steps to protect your joints during daily activities, such as using ergonomic tools or taking breaks when performing repetitive tasks.

• Consider supplements: Some studies suggest that certain supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, may help reduce the risk of osteoarthritis or slow its progression. 

While these steps can help reduce the risk of developing osteoarthritis, it is important to remember that the condition can still occur even with preventive measures. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help identify and treat any issues early on.

Remember to do not self medicate and always ask a doctor before taking any medications. Talk to Gytree’s women health experts who provide the root cause analysis and right guidance for your issues.