World Arthritis Day: OA severely impacts quality of life in over-50 age group, doctors describe early symptoms, treatment options

Bhubaneswar: Around 62.35 million individuals in India suffer from osteoarthritis (OA), a common disease-causing stiffness and pain in joints. The state of Odisha has also seen an increase in the incidence of the disease, even in the rural community. A study conducted in five villages in Odisha found that every third person above the age of 55 complained of symptoms associated with OA.
“In osteoarthritis, joint damage gradually develops, impacting cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and bone. Early identification and timely treatment is the only way forward. Remember, treatment zaroori hai,” said Dr. Sandeep Singh, Senior Consultant Orthopaedics, from CARE hospitals in Bhubaneswar.
OA most commonly impacts the knee and the hip joint, therefore, it is closely linked to the older population’s ability to move around and function independently.
Symptoms
“Osteoarthritis symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and changes in joint movement. At early stages, pain, tenderness, and joint stiffness tend to be limited to very specific times such as early morning or after high-impact physical activities,” said Dr. Sandeep Singh. As the condition advances, a patient may experience pain even when at rest or in simple household activities. This is why early identification and Treatment depending on the stage of osteoarthritis is the way forward. The disease should not be ignored. Treatment Zaroori Hai.”
Treatment Options
Symptom management is possible with a combination of medicines, injections and lifestyle modifications depending on the severity of the disease. Surgery may be helpful to relieve pain and restore function when other medical treatments are ineffective or have been exhausted.
“In osteoarthritis, joint damage gradually develops, impacting the bone. In case of knee osteoarthritis, Total knee replacement surgery aims to relieve pain and restore knee function depending on the severity of the disease,” Dr. Sandeep Singh.