Osteoarthritis Care: Identifying Early Signs And Exploring Modern Solution

Osteoarthritisis the most prevalent type of Arthritis out of 100 different types which is a degenerative joint condition.

Osteoarthritis Care

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{By: Dr Rajah V Koppala Vascular & Interventional Radiologist| Founder and Managing Director Avis Hospitals, Hyderabad.}

Have you noticed how our aging parents or grandparents often complain about knee pain? It’s easy to brush it off as just another age-related issue, right? But what if those joint pains are actually signs of something more serious, like osteoarthritis? In India, nearly 40% of people over 55 deal with this condition, making it very common.

For many, the solution to chronic pain often points to surgical options like knee replacements. But imagine the pain and emotional toll that puts on our loved ones, especially those with other health conditions. Surgery cannot be a safer alternative for them. Meanwhile, the ongoing pain from conditions like arthritis continues to steal away their quality of life.

Osteoarthritis: Identifying Early Warning Signs

Osteoarthritis, the most prevalent type of Arthritis out of 100 different types, is a degenerative joint condition. It is characterised by the development of abnormal blood vessels (neo-vascularisation) in the synovium and subchondral bone. The symptoms can range from simple joint pain to severe depression. Therefore, it is a must to identify and assess the early signs of the condition.

The early symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness and joint mobility restrictions. Consequently, a lack of movement leads to muscles losing strength and joints becoming unusable. Since Osteoarthritis is chronic and progressive, symptoms intensify and lead to other complications like cardiovascular diseases, obesity and diabetes. These in turn, affect lifestyle routines, leading to even depression, affecting quality of life. Therefore, early detection and taking precise precautions is always a welcoming antidote for Osteoarthritis.

Tips To Prevent Osteoarthritis:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can cause unnecessary pressure on the joints, especially knees, joint and hips. A healthy diet and regular exercise can keep weight in check.
• Use Assistive Devices: Usage of canes and braces can help protect joints while maintaining stability.
• Proper posture and techniques: Keeping an upright position and adhering to safe techniques while working out or performing any arduous task is essential.
• Maintain Anti-Inflammatory diet: Intake of foods enriched in Omega-3 fatty acids, fruits, vegetables and whole grains help to keep in check the inflammation.

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE): Revolutionising Osteoarthritis treatment

Techniques like Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) are stepping in to offer hope. GAE, unlike traditional therapies, is a minimally invasive medical procedure that targets the root cause to reduce inflammation. In this precision-targeted procedure, an interventional radiologist uses a small catheter to block targeted vessels. GAE has numerous advantages over some of the conventional procedures available out there.

• Minimally Invasive approach: Unlike surgery, a small puncture in the skin is made, avoiding the large incisions and significant tissue disruption.
• Reduced Risk Profile: The procedure has fewer risks, including infections and anesthesia-related complications.
• Adaptability: GAE is ideal for patients who are not ideal for surgery due to varied complications.
• Rapid Recovery and relief factor: Recovery after GAE typically takes just a few days, as opposed to the weeks for surgery.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]