In this insightful interview, Dr. Harindu Wijesinghe (MBBS, MD, MRCP), Consultant Rheumatologist and Specialist in Sports Medicine, shares valuable information on managing osteoarthritis and maintaining healthy joints.
What is Arthritis, and How Does It Differ from Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become weak and brittle, increasing the risk of fractures. On the other hand, osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease marked by the breakdown of cartilage in the joints, leading to pain and reduced mobility.
Osteoarthritis vs. Spondylosis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that can affect various joints, while spondylosis specifically refers to the degeneration of the spine, commonly causing back and neck pain and stiffness.
Spondylosis vs. Spondylolisthesis
While spondylosis involves the degeneration of the spine, spondylolisthesis refers to the displacement or slipping of one vertebra over another, which may result in pain, numbness, or weakness in the affected area.
Common Types of Arthritis
There are over 100 types of arthritis. Some of the most common types include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and gout. Additionally, muscle and tendon injuries such as rotator cuff and tennis elbow are also quite frequent.
How Arthritis Affects People
Osteoarthritis typically affects older adults due to wear and tear on the joints.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that can affect people at any age.
Psoriatic arthritis occurs in individuals with psoriasis.
Gout is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals, often affecting middle-aged men.
What to Do After Being Diagnosed with Osteoarthritis
There is currently no drug that can regrow damaged cartilage, but various strategies are employed to manage pain and prevent further damage. Treatment includes pain management, physical therapy, lifestyle changes (such as weight management and exercise), and for those with severe symptoms, surgical options like joint replacement may be considered.
Dos and Don’ts for Patients
Dos:
- Engage in low-impact exercises
- Strengthen the muscles around the affected joint
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Use assistive devices when needed
- Follow a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet
Don’ts:
- Avoid high-impact activities such as running or jumping
- Steer clear of activities that may aggravate the condition, such as heavy lifting or prolonged standing
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake
Preventative Measures for Healthy Individuals
To prevent osteoarthritis:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Stay active with regular exercise, particularly muscle-strengthening resistance exercises
- Avoid joint injuries by using proper techniques during physical activities
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D for bone health
- Steer clear of high-impact activities that stress the joints
By adopting these lifestyle choices and following Dr. Wijesinghe’s advice, you can reduce the risk of developing osteoarthritis and protect your joints as you age.
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