Eating healthy food, balanced nutrition, not smoking, drinking in moderation and getting good sleep will help you to feel your best. The amount of cartilage in the affected joints in stage four is much lower—and in some cases, it may be completely gone. The space between the joints is much smaller, and there is less synovial fluid to lubricate the joints. Most people have frequent pain when moving, walking, or doing other activities that use the joints. Stiffness in the joints may be worse in the morning and after prolonged sitting.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people worldwide. One common question that many individuals have about osteoarthritis is whether the condition worsens quickly over time.
More than just “wear and tear” on your joints, osteoarthritis is a joint disease. Early-onset osteoarthritis can occur at any age under 50 years old and is more likely to occur in people with certain risk factors. Osteoarthritis is a progressive condition that can worsen over time if left untreated.
Progression of Osteoarthritis
Although osteoarthritis can damage any joint, the disorder most commonly affects joints in your hands, knees, hips and spine. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, or inflammation of the joints. Known as degenerative joint disease, OA often develops slowly over…
Your rheumatologist will make sure you get the right treatment for both. Osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis share part of a name — the word “arthritis” means joint inflammation — but they are very different conditions. While rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s own immune system attacks the joints and causes inflammation, osteoarthritis is a much more mechanical disorder. At each stage of OA, it’s important to discuss your symptoms and treatment options with a healthcare provider. Although you may begin treatment with noninvasive options, such as OTC medications and lifestyle changes, you may need stronger alternatives if symptoms continue to get worse.
Using assistive devices, like walking with a cane can also improve the level of pain you feel. Remember that older people commonly have co-morbidities (conditions that occur together). For people with osteoarthritis, co-morbidities might be more responsible for worsening disability than osteoarthritis itself. Assistive devices, such as canes and braces, can help ward off knee pain in people who have osteoarthritis.
Items like jar openers, long-handled tools, braces, and canes can all help support, stabilize, or take some pressure off affected joints. And though that may sound like an expensive investment, there are many household items that can be used to help with tasks. Check out some of these surprising items you can repurpose to use as assistive devices.
The progression of osteoarthritis can vary from person to person. In some cases, the condition may progress slowly over many years, while in other cases it can worsen more rapidly. Factors such as age, severity of joint damage, and overall health can all play a role in how quickly osteoarthritis progresses.
Factors that Influence Progression
- Age: Osteoarthritis is more common in older adults, and as we age, joint damage can worsen over time.
- Severity of Joint Damage: The extent of joint damage can impact how quickly osteoarthritis progresses. Individuals with more severe joint damage may experience faster worsening of symptoms.
- Overall Health: Conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure can also contribute to the progression of osteoarthritis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can osteoarthritis be reversed?
A: While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, treatments such as physical therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
Q: Are there ways to prevent osteoarthritis from worsening?
A: Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and avoiding activities that put excessive strain on joints can help prevent osteoarthritis from worsening.
In conclusion, the progression of osteoarthritis can vary from person to person, and there is no definitive answer to whether the condition worsens quickly. It is important for individuals with osteoarthritis to work closely with their healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and helps manage symptoms effectively.
