Introduction to Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people worldwide, making it the most common form of arthritis. This condition is characterized by joint pain and stiffness, particularly in the affected joints such as the knees, hips, and spine—these are known as weight-bearing joints and are most vulnerable to wear and tear. Osteoarthritis develops when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in the joints gradually wears away. As this cartilage deteriorates, bones may begin to rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and sometimes swelling.
Several factors can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis. A family history of arthritis, previous joint injuries, and carrying excess weight all contribute to the likelihood of joint damage. Excess weight puts additional stress on weight-bearing joints, accelerating the breakdown of cartilage. Over time, the symptoms of osteoarthritis can interfere with everyday activities, making it important to understand the condition and take steps to protect joint health. By recognizing the early signs and addressing risk factors, individuals can help slow the progression of this common form of arthritis and maintain better joint function.
Understanding Osteoarthritis Symptoms
Recognizing and understanding osteoarthritis symptoms is crucial for managing the condition and maintaining quality of life. The most common symptoms of osteoarthritis include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, which can affect one or multiple joints. These symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen over time, especially after periods of inactivity or excessive use. Joint pain and stiffness can make it difficult to perform everyday activities, and if left untreated, may lead to chronic pain and reduced mobility.
Osteoarthritis symptoms can vary depending on which joints are affected and the severity of the condition. For some, symptoms may be mild and manageable, while others may experience significant discomfort that impacts their daily routine. Managing osteoarthritis often involves a combination of lifestyle changes—such as regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight—to support joint health and reduce pain. Treatment options like hyaluronic acid injections or corticosteroid injections may also be recommended by a healthcare professional to help manage pain and inflammation. Early diagnosis and prompt intervention are essential for reducing pain, preventing further joint damage, and preserving joint function. By staying proactive and working closely with a healthcare provider, individuals can take control of their osteoarthritis symptoms and improve their overall well-being.
Can Osteoarthritis Spread?
Osteoarthritis does not “spread” in the way an infection does, but it can develop in multiple joints over time. OA is a degenerative joint disease that results from the gradual breakdown of cartilage. If you have OA in one joint, you are at higher risk of developing it in other joints, especially if you have risk factors such as age, genetics, obesity, or a history of joint injuries.[1]
- Most commonly affected joints: The most commonly affected joints are the knees, hips, hands, spine, and sometimes feet.
- Progression: OA may start in one joint and, over years, develop in others due to shared risk factors or altered movement patterns (e.g., limping).
- Generalized OA: Some people develop “generalized osteoarthritis,” which affects multiple joints, often due to genetic predisposition or systemic risk factors.
While OA can appear in new joints, it does not “jump” from one joint to another. Instead, the same underlying causes may lead to OA in several locations. Osteoarthritis develops independently in different areas of the body, rather than spreading from one joint to another.
What Causes Osteoarthritis to Progress?
Certain factors can influence the development and progression of osteoarthritis. These include:
- Age: Cartilage naturally wears down as we get older.
- Genetics: Family history increases risk of OA in multiple joints.
- Obesity: Extra weight puts more stress on weight-bearing joints and increases inflammation.
- Joint injuries: Previous injuries or repetitive strain can accelerate cartilage breakdown.
- Joint misalignment: Abnormal joint structure or movement can lead to uneven wear.
- Inflammation: Chronic low-grade inflammation can worsen cartilage loss.
Managing these risk factors is key to slowing OA progression and preventing it from affecting additional joints.[2]
Case Study: Slowing the Spread of Osteoarthritis
A 58-year-old patient with knee osteoarthritis began experiencing pain in the opposite hip joint two years later. By adopting a weight loss plan, increasing physical activity, and working with a physiotherapist, the patient improved joint function and delayed the need for surgery. Early intervention and lifestyle changes helped prevent OA from developing in additional joints.
How to Prevent Osteoarthritis from Affecting More Joints
Taking proactive steps can help protect your joints and prevent osteoarthritis from affecting more joints.
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress—losing weight can lower the risk and severity of osteoarthritis.
- Stay physically active with low-impact exercise (walking, swimming, cycling)
- Protect joints from injury and repetitive strain
- Address joint pain or injuries promptly
- Eat a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet
- Manage chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure
- Work with a healthcare provider to monitor joint health
Treatments for Osteoarthritis
Conservative Treatments
- Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen muscles and improve joint flexibility.
- Pain management: NSAIDs, acetaminophen, or topical creams for pain relief. Certain treatments, such as NSAIDs or injections, can help reduce inflammation in the affected joints.
- Weight management: Reduces stress on joints and slows disease progression.
- Assistive devices: Braces, splints, or canes for support.
- Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, balanced diet, and stress management.
Prolotherapy
In recent years, Prolotherapy has built its reputation within the medical community for its clinically proven ability to treat osteoarthritis.
Published research has proven its pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory and regenerative benefits.
Prolotherapy involves injecting a natural regenerative solution with tiny needles. This has been shown to stimulate the production of collagen cells, the small cells needed to help with osteoarthritis.
As prolotherapy is helping to treat the root cause of osteoarthritis, it is deemed to be a permanent fix, preventing the symptoms from returning.
Other Interventions
- Corticosteroid injections: For severe pain or inflammation in specific joints.
- Surgery: Joint replacement or repair for advanced osteoarthritis not responding to conservative care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can osteoarthritis spread from one joint to another?
Osteoarthritis does not “spread” like an infection, but it can develop in multiple joints over time due to shared risk factors.[1] Individuals may develop osteoarthritis in different joints independently, especially if they have certain risk factors such as aging, menopause, or previous joint injury.
How can I prevent osteoarthritis from progressing?
Maintain a healthy weight, stay active, protect your joints, and address injuries early. Early intervention and lifestyle changes are key.
Is prolotherapy safe for osteoarthritis?
Prolotherapy is considered safe when performed by a qualified practitioner and has shown promising results for osteoarthritis pain and function.[3]
Can lifestyle changes really help?
Yes, weight loss, exercise, and a healthy diet can significantly slow OA progression and reduce pain.
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Author Bio
Having performed over 10,000 procedures, Mr Eaton is one of the UK’s leading practitioners in the field of treating osteoarthritis, with patients travelling to see him from across the UK, Europe, and the Middle East.
With over 12 years of clinical experience, Oliver is dedicated to helping patients understand their symptoms associated with osteoarthritis and providing effective treatment options to alleviate them.
He qualified in Prolozone Therapy and Prolotherapy in America with the American Academy of Ozonotherapy. He continued on to complete further qualifications at the Royal Society of Medicine, Charing Cross Hospital in London, Keele University’s Anatomy & Surgical Training Centre, and the medical department of Heidelberg University in Germany.
Over the years he has had the privilege of treating many elite-level athletes, including both Olympic and Commonwealth medallists.
References
- Arthritis Foundation. (2023). Can Osteoarthritis Spread? https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/about-arthritis/understanding-arthritis/can-osteoarthritis-spread
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. (2023). Osteoarthritis Progression. https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/osteoarthritis
- Rabago, D., et al. (2016). Prolotherapy in Primary Care Practice. Primary Care: Clinics in Office Practice, 43(2), 329-338. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4913113/