Osteoarthritis: when your joints are inflamed

However, for many others, there is no identifiable trigger. These are the ones among whom research has demonstrated a clear genetic predisposition in the development of osteoarthritis. These are the ones who demonstrate a family history of osteoarthritis such as Masole. They tend to have untriggered, early onset arthritis with no clear risk factors. Having additional risks makes the illness even more aggressive.

While prevention may be almost impossible,Dr Moroka says lifestyle can help minimise the frequency, duration and severity of the flares. “Prevention of obesity, optimal management of other chronic illnesses such as diabetes and gout and avoidance of unnecessary weightbearing activities,”he said.

Treatment of osteoarthritis,Dr Moroka says,includes pain management and reduction of inflammation. “Non-pharmacologic options include use of hot and cold compresses, physiotherapy and occupational therapy. Exercises such as yoga and swimming are also very effective. Pain and anti-inflammatory medication is prescribed where needed, together with injection of steroids into the joints to alleviate excessive inflammation”.

Dr Moroka says surgery is often a last option. This includes procedures done to relieve the joint of excessive swelling and wash out debris accumulated from inflammation, trim off excessive bone tissue to relieve disability and where necessary, replacing the entire joint with a metal prosthesis.