Seniors and Aging - Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is caused by the wearing down of cartilage in the joints of the body, causing varying degrees of pain, stiffness and swelling. A majority of Canadians will be affected by it by age 70. However, there are prevention and coping strategies that can help seniors with the disease remain active and enjoy a good quality of life.

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

• Pain in or around a joint
• Stiffness or problems in moving a joint
• Swelling sometimes in a joint

Many people do not have any symptoms in the early stages of the disease. It often can take a  long time for the disease to progress and the disease can remain stable for long periods of time.

Risk Factors for Osteoarthritis
                     
Your chances of developing osteoarthritis can depend on several factors.
Age. While age doesn't cause osteoarthritis, the disease affects a very large number of seniors. You can't avoid growing old, but you can improve the way your body ages by adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes physical activity.

Excess weight. Many studies have pointed to a link between obesity and osteoarthritis. Excess weight puts an extra strain on weight-bearing joints, especially the knees. A recent study estimated that in about 80% of knee replacement surgeries, excess weight was a factor. A 10 -15 lb. weight loss can reduce pain in the knees.

Injury and complications from other conditions. Osteoarthritis can develop because of previous joint injuries or joint inflammation, or diseases that affect the joints, such as diabetes.

Joints can also be injured when they are repeatedly put under high impact stress for long periods of time. Some types of exercise, sports or occupations may increase your likelihood of developing osteoarthritis. For example, hand osteoarthritis is often found among boxers and elbow osteoarthritis is more common among pneumatic drill operators.

Heredity. There is a genetic link in some specific forms of osteoarthritis. Some families may have a tendency for defective cartilage, while other families may have slight defects in the way the joints fit together.

Lack of physical activity. Exercise can strengthen supporting muscles and help maintain joint mobility. Often osteoarthritis sufferers avoid activity due to pain, stiffness, fatigue or fear of harming themselves. But inactivity can worsen osteoarthritis symptoms.