What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease characterized by wear and tear of the articular cartilage. It is a leading cause of joint pain and stiffness, especially in older people. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint, but is most common in the hips, knees, hands, and spine.
Symptoms of osteoarthritis: Painful joints as a warning signal
The symptoms of osteoarthritis develop gradually and worsen over time. Initially they often manifest as mild stiffness and pain that occur after periods of rest or at the start of movement. As osteoarthritis progresses, the pain can persist even during rest periods and increasingly restrict the mobility of the joints. Typical signs include deformation of the joints and the appearance of joint noises (crunching or cracking) when moving.
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Treatment of osteoarthritis: Diverse therapeutic approaches
Treatment for osteoarthritis aims to relieve pain, improve joint function and slow the progression of the disease. There are a variety of treatment options available depending on the severity and individual needs. These include painkillers, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, weight management and, in severe cases, surgical procedures such as joint replacement surgery.
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Causes of osteoarthritis: The gradual wear and tear of the joints
The exact causes of osteoarthritis are varied and not completely understood. However, known risk factors include age, genetic predisposition, obesity, joint injuries and long-term overloading of the joints. By understanding the causes, preventive measures can be taken to reduce the risk of osteoarthritis.
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Preventing osteoarthritis: Stay active and protect your joints
To prevent osteoarthritis, it is important to strengthen your joints through regular exercise and activities that are gentle on the joints. A balanced diet and avoiding excess weight also play a crucial role. In addition, targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles and measures to avoid joint overload can help.
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Nutrition for osteoarthritis: The right choice for healthy joints
A healthy diet can have a positive effect on the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish and certain vegetable oils, have anti-inflammatory effects. A sufficient supply of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants through fruit and vegetables is also beneficial. Reducing animal fats and sugar can also help relieve osteoarthritis pain.
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Conclusion
Osteoarthritis is a complex disease that requires a holistic treatment approach. However, with the right treatment and lifestyle adjustments, those affected can significantly alleviate their symptoms and improve their quality of life. It is important to see a doctor at the first signs of joint problems and take individually tailored measures.