This form of arthritis is very common and the prevalence is higher in woman and the risk rises with an increase in age. It results from a progressive degeneration of protective cartilage. Cartilage is a tissue that cushions the end of the bones that come together to form a joint, which allows for shock & pressure absorption and reduces friction when stress is applied to it.

Signs & Symptoms include:

• Usually affects hand, hips, knees and feet
• Aching pain upon or after movement
• Tenderness with application of pressure
• Swelling
• Clicking noise or grating sensation during movement
• Joint stiffness upon movement after a period of inactivity
• Decrease in range of motion of the affected joint
• Bone spurs

Management

The degenerative process cannot be reversed however symptoms can be effectively managed with the goal of treatment being to reduce pain and increase function.

• Exercise with routine stretching and strengthening including achieving a healthy body weight.
• RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation
• Heat and cold therapy
• Pain medication such as oral analgesics or Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID’s). Topical creams or gels such as Voltaren gel.
• General Podiatric care: taking care of the calluses and hard skin build up that occurs as a result of abnormal pressure or stresses that occur during walking.
• Use of ambulatory devices that can assist with mobility such as gripping tools or walking stick.
• Appropriate footwear
• Shoe inserts such as Innersoles or custom made orthotic devices
• Use of protective gear and devices
• Padding and strapping