Osteoarthritis (OA) 

• What is it?
  • Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in your joints gradually deteriorates. In osteoarthritis, the slick surface of the cartilage becomes rough. Eventually, if the cartilage wears down completely, you may be left with bone rubbing on bone.
• Symptoms
  • Osteoarthritis symptoms often develop slowly and worsen over time. Signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis include:
    • Joint Pain.
    • Joint Tenderness.
    • Joint Stiffness.
    • Loss of flexibility of joints.
    • Grating sensation in joints.
    • Bone spurs.
  • How is it diagnosed?
    • The diagnosis of OA may include use of images i.e. x-rays or MRI, labs test including joint fluid analysis and physician exam findings such as joint exam.
  • How is it treated?
    • Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others); Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Over-the-counter NSAIDs, including ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve, others); Duloxetine (Cymbalta).
    • Therapy such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, Tai chi and yoga
    • Interarticular injections e. cortisone injections and lubrication injection
    • Surgery such as joint replacements and realigning of bones can be done as well.