What is this disease

Deforming osteoarthritis is a chronic joint disease in which cartilage gradually deteriorates, bone structure changes, and deformities develop. As a result, the joint becomes painful, less mobile, and limits daily activity.

Causes and risk factors

The exact causes are not fully known, but the disease develops due to a combination of mechanical overload and age-related changes.

Risk factors:

• age over 50,
• female sex (especially after menopause),
• overweight and obesity,
• joint injuries and previous surgery,
• genetic predisposition,
• occupational or sports-related overload.

Types and classification

• By localization: knee, hip, shoulder, interphalangeal osteoarthritis.
  By origin:

  • primary (related to age, genetics, metabolic disorders),

  • secondary (result of trauma, inflammation, congenital defects).

• By stages (radiologically): from initial narrowing of the joint space to severe deformity and destruction.

Main symptoms

• joint pain on exertion, relieved at rest,

• morning stiffness (usually less than 30 minutes),

• limited mobility,

• crepitus during movement,

• gradual deformity,

• swelling and synovitis during exacerbations.

How it is diagnosed

• Clinical examination: complaints, deformity, limited movement.
• X-ray: joint space narrowing, osteophytes, subchondral sclerosis.
• Ultrasound or MRI: assessment of cartilage and soft tissues.
• Blood tests: nonspecific, used to exclude other diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis).

Modern treatment methods

• Non-pharmacological: weight reduction, regular physical activity, therapeutic exercise, physiotherapy, orthopedic aids.
• Pharmacological
• Surgical: joint replacement (endoprosthesis) in advanced cases.

Possible complications and prevention

Complications: severe joint deformities, chronic pain, mobility restriction, disability.

Prevention:

• body weight control,
• regular moderate physical activity,
• trauma prevention,
• timely treatment of early stages.

When to see a doctor

• if joint pain persists for more than 2–3 weeks,

• in case of morning stiffness and limited mobility,

• if visible deformity or swelling is present,

• if usual painkillers are ineffective.

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