Osteoarthritis is a joint disorder in which the cartilage decreases in quality and thickness. But how does a lack of cartilage develop? It is generally known that our cartilage becomes thinner as we age. Cartilage can also disappear due to heavy loading on joints. However, this article describes two other possible causes of osteoarthritis. Both causes are related to nutrition and lifestyle.
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a joint disorder in which the thin layer of cartilage in a joint disappears. The bone ends are damaged, and movement becomes painful.
Development
Osteoarthritis develops when there is insufficient cartilage on the ends of bones. As a result, bones rub against each other. That causes bone breakdown (erosion). The pain usually only appears when the joint is already significantly damaged. As a result, new bone tissue is formed, causing bony outgrowths. These outgrowths can rub against other bones, nerves, and soft tissues during movement. This is an important cause of osteoarthritis pain.
Possible causes of cartilage breakdown
Too little exercise or, conversely, too much loading on joints can cause osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis also occurs more often in certain families. Other possible causes are:
- Chronic inflammation.
- A high blood sugar level.
1. Chronic inflammation
Research shows that the pain in osteoarthritis is mainly due to inflammation. These inflammations arise in various ways. In osteoarthritis, food allergies may play a role.
2. A high blood sugar level
Fast sugars in particular cause a sharp rise in the blood sugar level. Sugar easily attaches to blood proteins, and that leads to harmful substances. The body becomes susceptible to inflammation and therefore also to osteoarthritis.
Treatment
Treatment starts with a diagnosis by a family doctor or specialist. They may prescribe medicines. There are no medical treatments or medicines that prevent or slow osteoarthritis. The best treatment is a combination of physiotherapy and a healthy lifestyle.
A physiotherapist helps keep the joints supple and maintain fitness. The aim is to limit damage to the joint as much as possible, reduce pain, and prevent disability or loss of function. If that does not help enough, painkillers and anti-inflammatories such as acetaminophen are prescribed.
Nutrition
Good nutrition is the basis for the prevention and treatment of osteoarthritis. A dietitian or orthomolecular practitioner helps with this. The aim of the treatment is to make the body healthy again with necessary and useful nutrients and to prevent overweight. The practitioner asks questions about diet and lifestyle.
It is also measured whether there is a deficiency or surplus of certain substances in the body. The treatment plan will focus on changes in diet and/or lifestyle. It may also be advised to use one or more dietary supplements.
Finally
Advising and treating osteoarthritis is customized care. Various health professionals are happy to help you. Always do this in consultation with the specialist or family doctor.