Arthroses

Arthroses, also known as osteoarthritis, is a degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, the tissue that cushions the ends of bones within a joint. This breakdown leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

The exact cause of arthroses is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute to its development. These include aging, genetics, obesity, joint injury or overuse, and certain metabolic disorders. While it can affect any joint, it most commonly occurs in the knees, hips, hands, and spine.

Symptoms of arthroses typically develop gradually and can vary in severity. Common signs include joint pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest, stiffness that is more pronounced after periods of inactivity, and a grating sensation or sound when the joint is moved. Swelling and a decrease in the range of motion are also possible.

Diagnosis of arthroses is usually made through a physical examination, patient history, and imaging tests such as X-rays. X-rays can reveal joint space narrowing, bone spurs, and other changes indicative of cartilage loss.

Currently, there is no cure for arthroses. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, slowing disease progression, and improving joint function. This can involve lifestyle modifications like weight loss and exercise, pain relief medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery such as joint replacement.