Final answer:
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a joint condition involving cartilage and bone breakdown due to wear and tear, not inevitable in seniors, with symptoms like joint pain and stiffness. Risk factors include weight, injury, and physical activity. Management includes protecting joints, medications, and potentially surgery for severe cases.
Step-by-step explanation:
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common joint disorder that often affects the elderly, but it is not inevitable. It is the result of the breakdown of joint cartilage and bone, primarily due to wear and tear on joints. Contrary to the myth that OA is a certainty in seniors, there are steps individuals can take throughout their lives to reduce the risk of developing it. Protecting your joints through low-impact exercises, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding excessive joint stress can all contribute to joint health. It's important to note that while OA is associated with aging and damage from physical stress, not everyone will develop the condition, and factors such as genetics, previous joint injuries, and overall health practices play a role.
Key symptoms of OA include joint pain and stiffness, which may lead to swelling and decreased range of motion, often affecting fingers, thumbs, neck, back, hips, and knees. The risk factors for OA such as being overweight, engaging in certain physical labor or sports, and sustaining joint injuries put additional stress on the cartilage, leading to its thinning and subsequent conditions like increased joint fluid and swelling. The bone tissue underneath can thicken and become irregular, further contributing to the pain and inflammation of OA. Treatment options focus on alleviating pain and include lifestyle changes, medications, and possibly surgery in severe cases.