Researchers have not specifically identified the cause-effect circumstances for osteoarthritis; however, besides trauma, diet, weight, and work or activity related stress on the joints (long or short-term) are said to be contributory. (Hosie and Dickson 2000; Arthritic Foundation 2002) The consequences of osteoarthritis are varied -- physical and psychological (Wildner and Sangha 1999)
Bits of bone or cartilage can break off and float inside the joint space. (Howell 1986) Areas Affected Hands: Osteoarthritis of the fingers is the one type of the disease that seems to be hereditary
Fractured osteophytes result in loose bodies in the synovial fluid which are also observed as indicators of advanced osteoarthritis. (Jewell, Watt et al
This absence of the lubrication causes pain, swelling, and loss of motion in the joint. Some researchers believe that over time excess stress on a healthy joint or normal stress on a previously (for known or unknown reasons) disturbed joint might cause osteoarthritis (Radin and Paul 1971)
The prevalence of the disease increases dramatically after the age of 50 years, likely because of age-related alterations in the joint that decreases the tensile strength of the joint cartilage and diminished nutrient-supply to the cartilage. (Roberts and Baruch 1966) Signs and Symptoms Primary osteoarthritis is a common disorder of the elderly, and patients are often asymptomatic
In some cases, pain is not one of the symptoms. (Veys and Verbruggen 1999) Diagnosis and Radiology In X-rays and other radiology reports, a chief limitation is that the wearing away of the cartilage is not recorded
Researchers have not specifically identified the cause-effect circumstances for osteoarthritis; however, besides trauma, diet, weight, and work or activity related stress on the joints (long or short-term) are said to be contributory. (Hosie and Dickson 2000; Arthritic Foundation 2002) The consequences of osteoarthritis are varied -- physical and psychological (Wildner and Sangha 1999)
MRI has the advantage of depicting cartilage directly and can be used to diagnose osteoarthritis in advance before its serious symptoms occur. (Zanetti, Bruder et al