OA is the most common joint disorder. It typically affects the joints of the hands (especially those involved with a pinch-grip), weight-bearing joints (hips, knees and big toes) and the spine.
In normal joints, a rubbery material called cartilage covers the ends of each bone. It provides a smooth, gliding surface for joint motion and acts as a cushion between the bones. In OA, the cartilage wears away leading to joint damage.
The cause of OA is unclear.
If you suspect you may have OA, see a family physician or rheumatologist. Education, lifestyle modification, painkillers and occasionally intra-articular injections may be used to relieve discomfort. If OA has resulted in pain, deformity and loss of function, the orthopaedic surgeon may consider surgery.
OA can usually be diagnosed based on patients’ symptoms and examination by a doctor. X-rays are the most useful test to confirm osteoarthritis, although they are not necessary for diagnosis. They may not show how much pain or disability osteoarthritis can cause.
Common risk factors include increasing age, obesity, previous joint injury and overuse. Genetic factors, pre-existing joint disorders such as Rheumatoid Arthritis and metabolic diseases may cause OA.
A combination of lifestyle modification and medications may be used to relieve symptoms:
Surgical management such as joint replacement may be considered at advanced stages.
Click here to access our Find A Doctor directory for a list of doctors treating this condition across our NUHS institutions.
