OSTEOARTHRITIS
By: Mandarin Medicare Diagnostics & Mandarin Centre for Alternative Therapy WHAT IS OSTEOARTHRITIS? Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. It happens when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time. When cartilage wears out, bone rubs on bone → pain, stiffness, and swelling . It’s common in people 45+ years, but it can affect younger people too. COMMON AREAS AFFECTED 1. Knees - Most common 2. Hips 3. Hands & Fingers 4. Lower Back & Neck 5. Feet COMMON CAUSES & RISK FACTORS 1. Age - Wear and tear over the years 2. Joint Injury - Past injury or accident 3. Obesity - Extra weight puts pressure on knees & hips 4. Overuse - Jobs/sports that stress the same joint 5. Genetics - Family history 6. Gender - More common in women after 50 SIGNS TO WATCH OUT FOR 1. Joint pain - Worse after activity, better with rest 2. Stiffness - Especially in the morning or after s...
