Final answer:
Osteoarthritis is a type of joint disease commonly seen in the elderly and characterized by joint pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. It most commonly affects the fingers, thumbs, hips, knees, neck, and lower back. Pain management mainly includes NSAIDs, corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections, and lifestyle modifications such as exercise and weight loss.
Step-by-step explanation:
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a type of joint disease that results from the breakdown of joint cartilage and underlying bone. It is the most common form of arthritis in the elderly. The symptoms often include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and decreased range of motion. These symptoms may initially occur after exercise but can become constant over time. The most commonly affected joints are those at the ends of the fingers, the bases of the thumbs, hips, knees, neck, and lower back.
Affected Joints and Symptoms
The symptoms of osteoarthritis may improve with rest and can be exacerbated by exercise, particularly in the early stages. Over time, the affected joints may develop hard nodes known as Heberden's or Bouchard's nodes when on the fingers.
Treatments for Osteoarthritis
To manage the pain associated with OA, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often used. Additionally, corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid can be injected directly into the affected joints to alleviate pain and improve function. Weight management, exercise, and physical therapy can also be effective in managing the symptoms of osteoarthritis.