Osteo Arthritis (OA)

As a joint disease that disintegrates the cartilage and bone, osteo arthritis is by far the most popular types of arthritis known to man today.  One of the main characteristics of this type of arthritis is its ability to breakdown cartilage and removes the barrier between two bones.  Eventually, these two bones will grind together until treated surgically. 

The pain associated with osteo arthritis varies in depending on the degradation of the bone or cartilage.  At the chronic level, osteo arthritis sufferers will have problems walking and bearing weight on their knees. 

Although there is no universal cause for osteo arthritis, there are several factors that can contribute to it.  Obesity has lead to numerous cases of osteo arthritis in the knees.  Gene’s have also played a major role in the patient developing osteo arthritis.  Most physicians will diagnose the patient during a routine office visit and can check for osteo arthritis with x-rays and blood work to confirm the patient’s symptoms.

There are several ways to treat osteo arthritis and no way to cure it.  One of the best ways it can be reduced is by exercising and forcing the joints to strengthen themselves.  Other treatments include hot and cold compresses, proper dieting / weight loss and even surgical procedures to correct this problem.

• osteoarthritis case study presentation
  Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and is projected to afflict 60 million persons in the United States alone by the year 2020.