Preventive measures may reduce or stop bone loss. The earlier these measures are begun, the more effective the results. If you suspect you’re at risk for osteoporosis, it’s wise to address it now, before a bone fracture occurs. Preventing osteoporosis involves making a few changes in your diet, getting enough exercise, and considering whether the available […]
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The word arthritis literally means “joint inflammation” – that is, a joint that is painful, warm to the touch, possibly red, swollen, and associated with a loss of function. “Osteo” is Greek for “bone”. Arthritis is not a single ailment. In fact, more than 100 different conditions can affect the joints and their adjacent bones, muscles, and
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The good news is that almost everyone with osteoporosis can be treated successfully. The newer medications on the market today (described in How You Can Prevent Osteoporosis) [hyperlink to that section] are considered breakthroughs in the treatment of osteoporosis. But treatment begins after the diagnosis, which is quick and easy with your bone density test
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Despite years of research, no one has a simple answer to this question. Many factors probably cause the initial cartilage damage that sets off the destructive process. It remains a mystery why particular joints are affected by osteoarthritis (OA) if they have not suffered any previous injury or disease. Joint Wear-And-Tear The aging process clearly can contribute
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Here are some frequently asked questions related to osteoporosis. Q: I’ve been allergic to milk since infancy. Do I have any hope of avoiding osteoporosis? A: Milk and dairy products are the main sources of calcium in our diet. If you have a true allergy to milk, you must avoid all milk products. But it is common to
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Depending on the joint affected, people with osteoarthritis may experience specific symptoms in the joints such as: Pain Stiffness Bony enlargement and swelling Activities of daily living, such as climbing stairs or opening jars, often become more difficult as the joints become more affected by the disorder. Osteoarthritis typically occurs in one or two joints
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Here is a summary of the important facts and information related to osteoporosis. Osteoporosis means thinning of the bones. If bones become thin enough, they break more easily. After fractures, activities can be limited and the risk of death may increase, especially after age 65. Osteoporosis may not be outwardly apparent until a fracture occurs, but it
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A diagnosis of osteoarthritis is made with: A medical history and physical examination Imaging methods Laboratory tests Physical Examination A primary care physician or rheumatologist (specialist in rheumatic disorders of the joints and related structures) will ask about: Joint symptoms Previous or current illnesses Traumatic injuries Operations you may have had Allergies Other medical conditions
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Successful treatment programs are tailored to meet the needs of the individual. By treating arthritis early and following a well-designed treatment plan, you can: Reduce your symptoms Increase joint movement Lessen joint-damaging effects Osteoarthritic joints are not always painful, and when pain is present, it can vary in intensity. In some people severe osteoarthritis is
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Even after a diagnosis of osteoarthritis, individuals can continue to lead a full and active life. In addition to various self-treatments such as exercise and medical treatments such as injections into a joint, other measures can be taken to live with OA. These measures include: Joint protection Assistive devices Help from healthcare professionals Developing a
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Here are some frequently asked questions related to osteoarthritis. Q: Will a change of diet improve my osteoarthritis? A: Research does not indicate that modifying one’s diet or eating larger amounts of certain foods will prevent OA or reverse its effects. Yet it is prudent to control obesity by limiting calories, opting for healthy eating habits,
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Here is a summary of the important facts and information related to osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that develops when cartilage – the lining tissue that cushions the ends of the bones in a joint – breaks down. This can happen because of prolonged wear-and-tear, prior injury, or because the cartilage is genetically weak or altered
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