In today’s article, we look at osteoarthritis, a very common condition that some of the participants in your chair-based exercise classes may have. This article serves as a basic introduction to this condition; follow the links below to learn more. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of joint problem, causing pain and stiffness in joints such as the knees, hips, spine, and hands. It occurs when the protective cushioning, known as cartilage, at the ends of bones wears down over time, leading to inflammation within the joint. This condition can make everyday activities difficult and significantly affect a person’s quality of life. Cartilage can be thought of as a smooth coating that helps bones glide smoothly against each other; when this coating wears away, the bones may rub together, causing pain and discomfort.
Prevalence
Osteoarthritis is a significant health concern in the UK. It is estimated that around 8.75 million people over the age of 45 have sought treatment for this condition. Additionally, approximately 10 million people in the UK are living with osteoarthritis, making it one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions.
The knee joint is most commonly affected. Osteoarthritis becomes increasingly common as people age, with about 70% of those affected being over 55 years old. Approximately 30% of people aged 45 and older have some form of osteoarthritis, and this figure rises to 50% or more among those aged 65 and older. However, it is important to understand that osteoarthritis is not exclusively an older person’s condition. Although the risk does increase with age, younger adults and even children can develop osteoarthritis due to various factors. Many people mistakenly believe osteoarthritis is simply a natural part of ageing. While age does increase the risk, not everyone will develop osteoarthritis as they age, and younger individuals can also be affected, particularly if they have risk factors such as obesity or previous joint injuries.
Causes
Osteoarthritis can develop for many different reasons, including inherited factors, joint usage patterns, and environmental influences. Several factors can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis, such as being older, obesity, previous joint injuries, repetitive movements that stress joints, having family members with the condition, and being female, particularly after menopause. Joint injuries from accidents or sports can increase the likelihood of developing osteoarthritis in the affected joint later in life. People whose occupations or sports involve repeated stress on particular joints may develop problems earlier. Obesity is particularly significant because it places extra stress on weight-bearing joints such as knees and hips. Additionally, some individuals may inherit a genetic predisposition to osteoarthritis from their parents, making them more susceptible regardless of age.
How the condition develops
When someone develops osteoarthritis, several changes occur within their joints. A joint can be visualised as two bones meeting, with cartilage acting as a cushioning material between them, facilitating smooth movement. When osteoarthritis develops, this cartilage begins to break down. Without this protective cushioning, bones can rub against each other, causing pain. The body attempts to repair this damage by growing extra bits of bone, known as bone spurs, but this can lead to stiffness and swelling in the joint. Over time, the space between the bones narrows, and the muscles surrounding the joint may weaken due to reduced usage. These changes collectively result in the typical signs of osteoarthritis: pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the joint.
Signs and symptoms
The signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis can vary depending on which joints are affected and the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include joint pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest, stiffness in the morning that usually eases after about 30 minutes, a grating sound when moving the joint, swelling and tenderness around the joint, and, in more severe cases, joint deformity. Individuals may also experience difficulty performing everyday tasks such as walking, climbing stairs, or holding objects.
How exercise can help
Many people worry that exercise might harm their joints if they have osteoarthritis. However, regular physical activity is actually one of the most effective ways to manage the condition. Exercise helps by strengthening the muscles around the joints, providing better support. It also promotes smooth joint movement by encouraging the production of natural joint fluid. Additionally, exercise can assist in maintaining a healthy weight, thereby reducing stress on weight-bearing joints such as knees and hips. Furthermore, regular physical activity contributes positively to overall physical and mental wellbeing.
Being careful when exercising
When exercising with osteoarthritis, it is important to take certain precautions to avoid exacerbating symptoms. Individuals should avoid activities that place excessive stress on joints. Wearing appropriate footwear that supports the feet and joints is also essential. Exercise should be stopped if severe pain occurs or if the joint becomes significantly swollen. Additionally, it is important to always warm up before exercising and cool down afterwards to minimise the risk of injury or discomfort.
When not to exercise
While exercise is generally beneficial for people with osteoarthritis, there are certain situations when caution is necessary or exercise should be avoided altogether. These include periods of flare-up when the joint is particularly painful, swollen, or inflamed; if the joint is severely damaged or unstable; if other health conditions such as uncontrolled heart problems or high blood pressure are present; and when exercises involve significant twisting or bending of affected joints.
Summary
Osteoarthritis is a common joint condition affecting many people in the UK. Although it becomes more prevalent with age, it is not simply an inevitable consequence of ageing. The condition can be effectively managed through various approaches, particularly regular exercise and maintaining an active lifestyle. By understanding osteoarthritis and following appropriate guidance for exercise and daily activities, individuals with this condition can often maintain a good quality of life and retain their independence.
Links:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/osteoarthritis/
https://www.versusarthritis.org/
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/osteoarthritis
https://www.arthritis.org/diseases/osteoarthritis
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanrhe/article/PIIS2665-9913(23)00163-7/fulltext
