CHENNAI: Arthritis is a condition in which the soft layer of cartilage in bone joints wears away. The cartilage in the joints, called hyaline cartilage, does not regenerate once it is damaged in affected patients. There are two types of arthritis: primary arthritis and secondary arthritis. The cause of primary arthritis is unknown, but it often affects older people.
The most common type of primary arthritis is osteoporosis, which is caused by the wear and tear of cartilage. “It can affect any joint, but the knee is usually most commonly affected. It can also affect the hands, which are smaller joints. Osteoarthritis affects women more than men. It has an impact,” said Dr S Ashok Gavaskar, Department of Orthopaedics, Trauma Center Care, Lila Hospital.
Secondary arthritis is caused by an underlying medical condition, such as an autoimmune disease or trauma. Another factor that can contribute to this condition is comorbidities such as diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and lung disease. Rheumatoid arthritis is a secondary arthritis. Secondary arthritis is less common, but more aggressive and progresses more quickly. It also affects younger age groups. If diagnosed early, it can be effectively treated and affected individuals can function normally.
Secondary arthritis can be treated medically and surgically, but prevention is key. Lifestyle modifications can help prevent arthritis and also delay its onset. Losing weight and maintaining an active lifestyle are the best options for women. “If the patient has difficulty sitting on the floor or squatting, we advise them to avoid all these activities and do other activities.
They can still lead an active life,” Dr Gavaskar added. When it comes to treatment, medications are not a permanent solution as there is no endpoint to treating arthritis. “Joint supplements are sometimes recommended, but their effectiveness is unclear and they are not preferred as front-line treatment,” he says.
“If a young patient has persistent pain, biological injections such as platelet-rich plasma taken from the patient’s body are given. Stem cell therapy is only effective in the first and second stages of arthritis. Yes. In advanced stages like stage 3 and 4, joint preservation therapy is offered. If the entire cartilage is worn out, realignment surgery is performed,” added Dr. Ashok Gavaskar.
