Osteoarthritis is one of the most common diseases especially in the elderly population. But what does this disorder involve? Let’s see together what are the risk factors, symptoms and possible treatments of this pathology.
Arthrosis is one of the chronic pathologies more common in the population, responsible for the largest percentage of cases of disability in elderly subjects. Although the onset of the disease occurs mainly in the‘old age, it is not a pathology linked to aging: in fact, many elderly people do not suffer from it.
In Italy it has been calculated that about 4 million people are affected, especially women. More specifically, osteoarthritis is a pathology that causes joint degeneration that is, the progressive alteration and loss of the anatomical components (cartilage and bones) that make up the joints. It can also involve the satellite muscles of the latter.
Risk factors
Read also: Cervical arthrosis: symptoms and when to operate
The combination of genetic factors and environmental factors contribute to the onset of this pathological condition. But if we can do nothing about the genetic predisposition; otherwise, with respect to environmental factors such as overweight, obesity, mechanical stresses (for example joint malpositions, dislocations), nutrition, we can instead do a lot starting in particular from prevention. The presence of pathologies affecting the endocrine system such as diabetes, thyroid disease represents another risk factor to be taken into consideration.
I sintomi
The main target of the‘arthrosis I’m the hip, the wrist, the knee and the mano. The main symptom felt by those suffering from this pathology is the pain defined as mechanical precisely because it arises thanks to the movement of the joint; while it tends to disappear or at least to relieve itself with rest.
In the morning, often the pain it is also accompanied by a short stiffness which can also occur following the resumption of movement of the joint after a short period of rest, on average 10-15 minutes. Another distinctive sign of arthrosis is the swelling and the tumefazione of the affected joint.
In the more advanced stages ahypotrophy of the muscles or a reduction of the muscle mass. L‘radiological examination it is what certainly helps us in the diagnosis and in the knowledge of the deformation level of the joint, in particular, in the evaluation of the percentage of the reduction of the space existing between the bones that make up the joint.
You may be interested in: Osteoarthritis and rheumatism: all natural remedies
Prevention
Arthrosis is one of the rheumatic pathologies against which it can and must be done prevention. Although in fact you can have one genetic predisposition against this pathology, a correct lifestyle and the elimination of incorrect behaviors can definitely delay the onset, but also the progression of the disease.
The weight reduction is the main one defense weapon against this rheumatic disease: population epidemiological studies have fully demonstrated how the maintenance of a condition from normopeso reduces the likelihood of arthrosis in the knee by 50%. Likewise, weight reduction in those who already suffer from osteoarthritis reduces joint pain and disease progression. If we combine the maintenance of body weight with regular physical activity, we will contribute more to the maintenance of body weightjoint integrity.
The power supply
Also in this case the power supply play a key role in fighting this disease by reducing joint inflammation in the first place. There Mediterranean diet in particular, it once again proves to be the most suitable dietary style precisely because it is based on the intake of foods rich in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids capable of carrying out a certain and proven anti-inflammatory action.
The omega-3 in fact they are able to counteract the production of cytokines, proteins responsible for the condition of inflammation; but also to reduce the activity of enzymes involved in the degradation of cartilage. And cibi a greater content in omega-3 I’m: extra virgin olive oil, the dried fruit, the fish, in particular salmon, tuna, sardines, trout, mackerel.
The foods that make up the Mediterranean diet also boast of being an important source of antioxidants including Vitamin A, C e Vitamin E, capable of controlling inflammation and helping to prevent tissue damage caused by free radicals. It is preferable not to resort to the use of supplements, in fact, adiet varies, rich in seasonal fruit and vegetables, will be enough to make the right supply.