Osteoarthritis (OA) is common, affecting 27 million people in the United States, and accounts for 25 percent of physician office visits. By age 65, 80 percent of the U.S. population will have x-ray evidence of OA; however, only two-thirds will have symptoms. Over the last decade, hospitalizations related to OA have doubled. It is the leading chronic disability in the US. Therefore this is a serious and important clinical problem.The cause of OA is not clear. Trauma can cause OA but genetics, lifestyle and metabolism play a role. The knees, hands, hips and back are frequently affected.
Cartilage lubricates joints and helps to absorb stress. As we age, we lose joint cartilage and underlying bone may be damaged. This may cause increasing pain. As train increases, patients may be fearful of joint movement, which may cause muscle damage.
OA patients have use-related pain, stiffness, reduced movement and feelings of unstable joints. They experience joint tender spots, swelling, cracking noises of the joint, locking up of the joint and signs of mild inflammation. Excessive warmth, redness and swelling should cause the patient to see their physician.
Currently, we do not have a treatment that reverses OA damage; treatment is symptomatic. Joints can be injected with a thick material that mimics the fluid in a joint. Patients can receive medications for their pain, and physical therapy can help with the reduction in function. The approach needs to be multidisciplinary.
At the Pain Treatment Center of the Bluegrass, we are engaged in the treatment of OA as well as clinical research in OA. John F. Peppin, D.O., F.A.C.P., Director Clinical Research Division
The Pain Treatment Center of the BluegrassClinical Associate Professor, University of Kentucky, Associate Medical Director, Hospice of the Bluegrass
2416 Regency Road
Lexington, Kentucky 40503
859 278-1316 ext. 266859 260-2467
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