OSTEOARTHRITIS Meaning and
Definition
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Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that primarily affects the articular cartilage, the protective tissue lining the ends of bones within joints. It is the most common form of arthritis, typically occurring in older individuals or individuals with a history of joint injury or obesity. Osteoarthritis is characterized by the breakdown and gradual loss of cartilage, leading to joint pain, stiffness, and functional impairment.
As the cartilage wears away, bone spurs, or osteophytes, may develop at the joint edges, causing further pain and inflammation. This condition often affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, spine, and hands, but can occur in any joint.
The exact causes of osteoarthritis are not fully understood, but various factors contribute to its development, including aging, genetics, previous joint injuries, obesity, muscle weakness, and abnormal joint development. Common symptoms of osteoarthritis include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, restricted mobility, muscle weakness, and a grating sensation or clicking sound during joint movement.
Treatment for osteoarthritis aims to manage symptoms, improve joint function, and slow disease progression. This may include non-pharmacological interventions such as physical therapy, exercise, weight management, and assistive devices. Pharmacological interventions, like over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications, may also be used to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. In severe cases, surgical interventions like joint replacement may be considered. Nonetheless, osteoarthritis is a chronic condition that requires long-term management and may lead to disability if not properly cared for. Monitoring and regular check-ups with healthcare professionals are crucial for effective management of osteoarthritis.
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1. Inflammation of the articular extremity of a bone, involving the contiguous joint structures, resulting in erosion and fibrillation of the cartilages, and eburnation of the bones with osteophytic growths. 2. The hypertrophic form of arthritis deformans.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Etymology of OSTEOARTHRITIS
The word "osteoarthritis" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "osteo" and "arthritis".
1. "Osteo" comes from the Greek word "osteon", which means "bone".
2. "Arthritis" originates from the Greek word "arthron", meaning "joint", and the root "itis", which refers to inflammation.
Therefore, "osteoarthritis" describes a condition characterized by the inflammation of joints, particularly the joints in the bones.
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