Osteoarthritis

What Is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. It is a degenerative joint condition that mainly affects cartilage, the smooth tissue that cushions the ends of bones. When cartilage wears down, joints lose their natural shock absorption. As a result, movement becomes painful and stiff.

Over time, osteoarthritis can reduce mobility and affect daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or even resting comfortably.

How Does Osteoarthritis Develop?

Osteoarthritis usually develops slowly. However, several factors can speed up joint wear and tear.

Common causes include:

• Age
  Cartilage naturally becomes thinner and weaker with age.

• Previous Joint Injury
  Sports injuries, accidents, or untreated ligament damage increase the risk.

• Excess Body Weight
  Extra weight places more stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.

• Genetics
  Some people inherit joint structures that are more prone to degeneration.

• Joint Overuse
  Repetitive movements at work or during sports can strain the joint over time.

Often, osteoarthritis develops due to a combination of these factors rather than a single cause.

What Happens Inside the Joint?

As osteoarthritis progresses, cartilage breaks down and loses its smooth surface. Without proper cushioning, bones begin to rub against each other.

This process can lead to:

• Pain, especially during movement

• Stiffness, often worse in the morning or after rest

• Swelling, caused by joint inflammation

• Reduced range of motion, making movement harder

Eventually, joint function declines, and daily tasks become more challenging.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Although anyone can develop osteoarthritis, certain groups are more likely to be affected.

OA is more common in:

• adults over the age of 50

• women, especially after menopause

• athletes and physically active individuals with past injuries

• people who are overweight or obese

However, younger adults can also develop osteoarthritis, particularly after ligament or cartilage injuries.

How Is Osteoarthritis Treated?

Osteoarthritis treatment focuses on relieving pain, maintaining movement, and slowing joint damage. Treatment plans are usually personalised.

Common approaches include:

• Medication
  Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medicines help control symptoms.

• Physiotherapy
  Targeted exercises strengthen muscles and support the joint.

• Lifestyle Changes
  Weight management, activity modification, and joint protection reduce stress on the joint.

• Surgery
  In advanced cases, procedures such as joint replacement may be considered.

Early treatment often leads to better long-term outcomes.

How Do Biologic Treatments Help Osteoarthritis?

Biologic therapies aim to support the joint’s natural healing environment rather than just masking pain.

These treatments may include:

• hyaluronic acid injections to improve lubrication

• platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to support tissue repair

• regenerative therapies, such as stem-cell–based approaches, in selected cases

Biologics may help reduce inflammation, improve comfort, and delay disease progression in suitable patients.

Learn more about joint preservation and biologic treatments

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should consult a doctor if you experience:

• ongoing joint pain that does not improve

• stiffness that limits daily activities

• swelling, warmth, or redness around a joint

• symptoms that affect sleep or quality of life

Early diagnosis allows for timely intervention and may help slow joint degeneration.

Take Control of Joint Health Early

Osteoarthritis does not have to define your lifestyle. With early assessment, evidence-based treatment, and the right care plan, many people continue to stay active and mobile for years.

If joint pain is affecting your movement, seek professional advice early to protect your joints and preserve long-term function.

Listen to Assoc. Prof. Dato. Dr. Badrul Akmal Hisham talk with IKM FM.