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 sitting

3. Swelling around the joint

4. Cracking or grinding sound when moving

5. Loss of flexibility - Trouble bending/kneeling/walking

HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED? - Mandarin Medicare Diagnostics

1. Physical Exam - Check movement and pain areas

2. X-Ray - Shows cartilage loss and bone changes

3. MRI/CT Scan - For detailed joint pictures

4. Blood Test - To rule out other types of arthritis

MANAGEMENT & TREATMENT OPTIONS

1. Lifestyle Changes: 

   - Weight loss - Less pressure on joints

   - Exercise - Walking, swimming, gentle stretching

   - Rest & Joint protection

2. Pain Relief: Pain relievers, hot/cold packs

3. Physiotherapy - Strengthens muscles around the joint

4. Medical Treatment: Injections, supplements like Glucosamine

5. Alternative Therapy Support:

   - Nutrition: Turmeric, Ginger, Omega-3, Vitamin D & Calcium

   - Herbs: Anti-inflammatory herbs for joint pain relief

   - Massage & Acupuncture- For pain and stiffness

FOODS THAT HELP JOINTS

Fatty fish, nuts, olive oil, leafy greens, berries, turmeric, bone broth

KEY MESSAGE

Osteoarthritis cannot be cured, but it can be managed.

Stay active, maintain a healthy weight, and treat it early to prevent worse damage.  

Don’t let joint pain slow you down.

For diagnosis, pain management & alternative therapy support:  

Mandarin Medicare Diagnostics & Mandarin Centre for Alternative Therapy