Osteoarthritis affects millions of people around the world. It is a disabling musculoskeletal condition, often underestimated, with a significant impact on the quality of life of those who suffer from it.
For us at Health Hub, transmitting knowledge and information is the first fundamental step to best and effectively deal with many ailments, including osteoarthritis.
Understanding osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a chronic joint disease characterized by the degeneration of the articular cartilage and alterations of the surrounding bone tissue. Its causes can be multiple, including aging, chronic wear and tear of the joints, previous injuries or genetic predisposition.
Evaluation and diagnosis
The diagnosis of osteoarthritis is the responsibility of the orthopedic doctor and physiatrist and involves a series of evaluations, including physical examination, patient history and sometimes imaging tests such as x-rays and MRIs.
Common symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and loss of joint function.
Possible treatments
At our center there are several treatment options to manage osteoarthritis and improve your quality of life.
These include:
- Medicines: Analgesics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroid injections, or hyaluronic acid to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
- Physical therapy: Targeted exercises to improve muscle strength, flexibility and joint mobility, assisted by specialized professionals with a degree in Physiotherapy.
- Weight loss: If necessary, weight loss can relieve the load on the affected joints. Our nutritionists will be able to help you in this very important aspect.
- Support Devices: Aids such as braces or canes can reduce stress on joints and improve functionality.
- Surgery: in the most serious and debilitating cases, our orthopedists will be able to offer you a prosthetic surgical solution. The joints most successfully addressed are the knee and hip.
Preventive aspects
Our strength is definitely "Prevention".
Preventing osteoarthritis is possible through some healthy lifestyle practices, tested several times with many of our patients and supported by the most recent scientific literature:
- Regular exercise: Maintaining a routine of physical activity can help strengthen surrounding muscles and improve joint health. Our kinesiologists will be able to best support you, depending on your specific needs and requirements.
- Balanced nutrition: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins can help maintain a healthy weight and provide nutrients important for joint health.
- Avoid injury: Play sports safely and take precautions during daily activities to reduce the risk of joint injuries.
Conclusion
Osteoarthritis can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to define our lives.
With the right understanding, evaluation and treatment, you can effectively manage this condition and continue to live an active and fulfilling life.
Always remember to consult your family doctor for an initial assessment of your general health and follow a healthy lifestyle to preserve the health of your joints.
Would you like to start a personalized journey to achieve your health and well-being goals?
We are waiting for you at our headquarters in Lurate Caccivio, Via Repubblica 8/A
Health Hub – Polo Salute
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