Osteo-arthritis the most common form of arthritis - arthritis
means "inflamed joint". It occurs when the joint cartilage
and bones begin to break down. Once this starts to happen,
the joint can no longer work properly.
What causes it?
Primary osteo-arthritis begins because of abnormalities
of the cells that make up the cartilage. It is not known
what causes these abnormalities.
Secondary osteo-arthritis is caused by another disease
or an injury to the joint.
What are the symptoms?
They develop gradually
Affects mostly weight-bearing joints - hips, knees, spine
Pain is the first symptom
Stiffness after sleep which goes away when you start to move
As damage worsens, the joint may become less movable
What is the treatment?
The right exercises that help keep cartilage healthy and
strengthen your muscles
Physiotherapy
Drugs if necessary to control pain and inflammation
Surgery as a last resort
For more information, try the following Web sites:
MedlinePlus contains in-depth information on arthritis:
National Library of Medicine US
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/arthritis.html
Arthritis Foundation of Queensland
http://www.arthritis.org.au
Osteoarthritis and exercise - Monash University Health Promotion
http://www.monash.edu.au/health/pamphlets/osteoarthritis2/index.htm
For support and more information, contact:
The Arthritis Foundation of Queensland:
Address: 134a St Paul’s Terrace, Spring Hill Qld 4004
Phone: (07) 3831 4255
