Arthritis Osteoarthritis, Things You Should Consider

Learning basic information concerning arthritis osteoarthritis can help you to take care of yourself better if you are diagnosed with this condition.

This type of arthritis is more common than any other type.

The joints in your body are protected by cartilage. This is an elastic type material that actually acts as a shock absorber for your joints. It prevents the bones from rubbing together causing swelling and pain. Arthritis osteoarthritis breaks down this cartilage wearing it away and sometimes small bits of the cartilage will lodge between the bones. This in turn causes pain, inflammation and swelling in the joints.

Over time exposure to this type of arthritis will cause the cartilage between the joints to completely wear away. When this happens, bumps called spurs can form on the bone or they can become thicker on the ends. The joints most affected by arthritis osteoarthritis include the fingers, hands, hips, knees, feet and spine. However, this type of arthritis can set up in any joint especially if it has been injured or overused regularly. Studies show that over a period of time osteoarthritis does cause inflammation in the joints even though it is classified as a non-inflammatory disease.

The more this condition progresses the more problems you will have trying to use your joints. You may experience trouble walking or using your hands depending on which joints are affected. No one knows for sure what causes osteoarthritis to occur but it is known that the older you get the more chance you have of getting this disease. Heredity, injuries, overuse and being overweight are other factors that increase the odds of you having osteoarthritis. Signs to look for that could indicate you may have this condition include swelling in your joints along with feeling pain and stiffness.

Osteoarthritis will usually begin slowly and then more serious and painful symptoms will develop over a period of time. Some people will have bumps that come up around the affected joint, but this usually happens when the fingers, hands or feet are affected. You will find that it is very hard to perform simple task as this disease progresses. You need to know as soon as possible if you have osteoarthritis. Early detection can make a big difference in your arthritis care. Therefore, if you have any of the signs mentioned above you should see your health care provider as soon as possible.

Other Arthritis Relief Suggestions

One can also find arthritis relief creams on the market that can be massaged on the affected area at home when you want relief fast; there are also sprays available for arthritis that can be applied conveniently even on the go to ensure that you stay pain free. Both the cream and the spray for arthritis are small enough to fit in a handbag so you can have it handy should the effect wear off during the day.

Try as much as possible to stay away from the traditional prescription drugs, as besides the mild side effects that you will experience right away, you will also have long term side effects as well.