Latest news with #Osteoarthritis
Medical News Today
16 hours ago
- Health
- Medical News Today
Small change to how you walk may help relieve osteoarthritis pain
Osteoarthritis is a chronic, degenerative condition of the joints that most commonly occurs in people over the age of condition can affect any joint in the body, but is most common in the knees, hands and there is no cure, the condition can be managed by staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and taking medications to relieve a study has found that modifying your walking style may relieve the pain and slow the progression of knee osteoarthritis as effectively as commonly used is the most common form of arthritis — a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 33 million adults in the United States have osteoarthritis, and the likelihood of developing the condition increases hugely as you age. Worldwide, almost 40% of people aged over 70 have it can affect any joint in the body, osteoarthritis is most common in the knees, causing pain and problems with walking. Treatments can alleviate symptoms, but cannot cure the CDC suggest several ways to help delay the onset of osteoarthritis and manage symptoms, including:keeping physically active as you get oldermaintaining a healthy weightprotecting your joints from injuryover-the-counter or prescription medicationsusing crutches or a walking stick if needed.A new study by researchers from the University of Utah, New York University, and Stanford University, suggests that learning to walk differently could both slow the progression and relieve the pain of knee research, published in The Lancet Rheumatology, found that changing the angle of the foot while walking could be as effective as commonly used medications in managing symptoms of knee Kruse, MD, primary care sports medicine physician, of Cedars-Sinai Orthopaedics in Los Angeles, CA, not involved in the research, commented to Medical News Today that:'The results of this study by Uhlrich et al., examining the effect of gait retraining on knee osteoarthritis outcomes, are encouraging. They successfully showed positive outcomes through a personalized intervention, that optimized joint unloading. Additionally, identifying an intervention that not only improves management but also helps to slow the progression of osteoarthritis is very promising.''The improvement in pain is significant'Valentina Mazzoli, PhD, assistant professor in the Department of Radiology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, and co-lead author of the study, explained that the research 'showed that shifting the angle of the feet while walking can reduce knee pain in osteoarthritis.'According to Mazzoli:'The improvement in pain is significant, and of the same magnitude of what is typically achieved with pain medications, but without any of the pharmacological side effects. This makes gait retraining a very promising and effective option for early stage knee osteoarthritis.'The participants in the study were aged 18 or over. All had early-stage medial compartment knee osteoarthritis, graded levels 1 to 3 on the Kellgren-Lawrence scale (where 4 is severe osteoarthritis) by a radiologist. The 68 people included in the study could walk unaided for 25 minutes on a treadmill, had a body mass index (BMI) of less than 35 kilograms per square meter (kg/m²), and reported medial knee pain of 3 or more on an 11 point scale (NRS-11).Small adjustments reduced pain and joint degeneration All participants underwent MRI scans and had their gait analyzed in the laboratory before being randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to the intervention group or the control told them they were involved in a 'a two-group study investigating which type of personalised foot progression angle walking training was most effective,' to ensure they did not know which group they were the first 6 weeks of the study, participants visited the gait laboratory once a week. The intervention group were trained to change their foot progression angle (toe-in or toe-out) by 5 to 10 degrees to reduce the load on the knee. The sham group underwent the same training, but their natural angle of foot progression was the 6 training sessions, they were encouraged to practice their walking technique for at least 20 minutes per day until it became natural. During the 1-year follow up, they attended the laboratory 3 times, so researchers could check that they were maintaining the prescribed angle while the end of the study, the intervention group reported a larger reduction in pain than the control group, with the intervention group's NRS pain score reducing, on average, by 2.5, and the control group's by 1.3 from the beginning of the strikingly, MRI scans showed that the intervention group had less degeneration of their knee cartilage than the control group.'An exciting finding of this study is the potential slowing of cartilage degradation with gait retraining. While this holds substantial potential, further study is necessary to understand whether or not the amount of demonstrated slowing will translate to improved clinical outcomes over time.'– David Kruse, MDCould this be an effective alternative to medication?The researchers suggest that gait retraining could become an effective intervention for managing knee osteoarthritis. However, Kruse advized that gait retraining is not always straightforward: 'An individual's gait, or walking pattern, is influenced by a unique chain of complex musculoskeletal structures. Understanding and examining normal gait patterns can be challenging. Consequently, making biomechanical changes to a person's gait pattern can be very difficult.''Understanding what changes are beneficial can be the first hurdle, followed by the challenge of establishing the alteration of gait as the individual's new normal,' he advised. 'Additionally, to address the complexities of the process, the analysis and re-training require specialized insight and expensive equipment. Therefore, modifying gait patterns is not a simple process.'But, Mazzoli told MNT, new technologies could help solve these problems:'Recently developed AI-based technology allows [us] to estimate knee loading and determine the best personalized foot angle for each patient. This could really allow gait retraining to become a readily accessible treatment. We really want to make use of this new technology, so that this gait modification can become widely available in the clinic for patients with knee [osteoarthritis].'
Time of India
5 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
9 daily habits you might be following that make your knee pain worse
Knee pain is a common issue affecting people of all ages, caused by injuries, overuse, or underlying conditions like arthritis. While treatment and exercises can help, everyday habits often make discomfort worse without us realising it. Activities such as improper exercise, poor posture, wearing unsupportive footwear, or even sleeping the wrong way can place extra stress on your knees, intensifying pain and slowing recovery. By identifying and adjusting these daily habits, you can reduce strain, improve joint function, and protect your knees. Here are nine things you might be doing that could be worsening your knee pain. 9 everyday habits that could be worsening your knee pain Exercising too much or not enough Your knees can handle a lot of force, about three times your body weight when walking and up to ten times when climbing stairs, squatting, or lunging. High-impact workouts like running, jumping, or kickboxing, as well as repetitive deep squats and lunges, can aggravate pain. On the other hand, doing too little movement can weaken supporting muscles. According to a study published in NIH, the best approach is low-impact activity such as walking, cycling, swimming, or using an elliptical, combined with proper warm-ups and stretches before any workout. Eating a pro-inflammatory diet What you eat can influence knee comfort, especially if inflammation is part of the problem. According to Osteoarthritis and Cartilage , processed foods high in sugar, salt, and saturated fats, along with excessive alcohol and red or processed meats, may worsen symptoms for some people. Aim for anti-inflammatory choices: whole grains, non-acidic fruits, vegetables, legumes, oily fish, nuts, and seeds. Maintaining a healthy weight is key; even one extra stone adds the equivalent of ten stone of pressure on your knees when climbing stairs. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free P2,000 GCash eGift UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Skipping helpful supplements Supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin, found naturally in cartilage, may help protect joints and reduce discomfort for some people, though research is mixed. Omega-3 fatty acids and turmeric (curcumin) can also reduce inflammation. If you try supplements, take them consistently for at least three months to gauge results. Sleeping in the wrong position Your sleeping posture can put strain on sore knees. Side sleeping with knees pressed together can cause discomfort, as can keeping a painful knee fully extended. If you sleep on your side, place a pillow between your knees to prevent them from touching. If you sleep on your back and find full extension uncomfortable, place a small cushion or rolled towel under the affected knee. Wearing unsupportive footwear Shoes that alter your posture or cause instability such as high heels or ill-fitting footwear can worsen knee pain. Choose supportive, flat shoes with good cushioning. If you walk on hard surfaces regularly, silicone heel inserts can help absorb shock. Avoiding pain relief Over-the-counter medication can help you stay active while managing discomfort. Paracetamol is safe for regular use during flare-ups, and NSAIDs like ibuprofen can reduce pain and inflammation (though long-term use should be monitored by a doctor). If these aren't effective, consult your GP for alternative treatments. Poor sitting and driving habits Sitting or driving with knees bent at 90° for long periods increases stress on the joint. Aim for a more relaxed position around a 45° bend and adjust your seat accordingly. Also, prevent falls by keeping walkways clear, using handrails on stairs, and ensuring good lighting at home. Avoiding mobility aids Using a walking stick, crutch, or knee brace can take pressure off a painful joint and improve stability. The key is correct fit, aids that are too short or tall can cause strain elsewhere. If you develop discomfort in your arm or hand, try switching sides. Delaying medical advice If lifestyle changes, supplements, and pain relief aren't working, or if you experience sudden pain, twisting injuries, or reduced mobility, see a doctor. Early diagnosis can prevent worsening damage and help you find effective treatment sooner. Many cases of knee pain can be improved by adjusting daily habits. Low-impact exercise, a healthy diet, good footwear, and timely medical advice all play a role in protecting your joints and staying active. If you have persistent or severe pain, don't wait; take action now to safeguard your knee health. Also Read: Avoid these 6 exercises if you have arthritis or joint instability: Protect your knees and hips "Get the latest news updates on Times of India, including reviews of the movie Coolie and War 2 ."
ABC News
11-08-2025
- Health
- ABC News
'A long day coming': Canberra's new hydrotherapy pool ready to open in Tuggeranong after five-year wait
Osteoarthritis and psoriatic arthritis leave Patricia Clark in pain "24-hours a day, every day". The 74-year-old lives by herself and is dependent on a walker to get around. "I've got pain in my lower back and it's causing weakness in my legs, so it's hard to stay upright," she said. "I have trouble standing at the sink to prepare meals or to do anything standing up is difficult." One of her main sources of pain relief is hydrotherapy — so she is relieved that, after a five-year wait, a new hydrotherapy pool has finally been finished in Canberra's south. "The warmth of the water immediately relaxes your body as soon as you go in, you feel this immediate freedom," she said. "Plus the water supports your body ... to be able to walk without a walker. The $8.5 million facility, at the Lakeside Leisure Centre in Greenway, was a 2020 ACT government election promise to replace the Canberra Hospital hydrotherapy pool that closed the same year. Ms Clark was among the pool users who fought to stop the closure of the Canberra Hospital pool, and has since had to use a "cold" learn-to-swim pool for her therapy. "As the years have gone on I've lost patience ... thinking it would never happen," she said. While the pool's opening is a welcome milestone to reach, Ms Clark said she is still "a bit apprehensive" about the availability of sessions in the pool. "We don't know how much opportunity we will have to use it," she said. It's a concern shared by Arthritis ACT, which has been running up to 50 hydrotherapy sessions at the University of Canberra Hospital pool each week. With each session only able to take 12 people, all of their sessions have been full. "To be honest, it's been a long day coming. There's just so many more people [in need]," Arthritis ACT exercise physiologist Sophie Bullock said. Tuggeranong Community Council president Glenys Patulny suspects the new pool will be "heavily in demand". "There are about 90,000 people in Tuggeranong and this will actually service a lot of Woden and Weston Creek as well," she said. While the new pool is designed to "complement" the University of Canberra Hospital's hydrotherapy pool, Ms Bullock said there were still very few accessible and affordable pools in Canberra. "Managing a chronic condition is not a cheap thing to do and with a lot of private pools … you may not have $25 per [session]," she said. "When you're living on a pension is very hard to try and manage." Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith acknowledged the "continuing demand for hydrotherapy across our community". "We will continue listening to the community's feedback about the need for more services," she said. The new Tuggeranong hydrotherapy pool features underfloor heating and a water temperature of 33 to 34 degrees Celsius, and is designed to support people with chronic conditions such as arthritis and cancer, and people recovering from injury. "Most people with chronic pain now understand that you can't just keep popping a pill, there is no golden pill to get rid of chronic pain," Arthritis ACT CEO Rebecca Davey said. Ms Davey said hydrotherapy pools could "almost trick the central nervous system" and bring relief for those suffering chronic pain and movement conditions. "So that when you're in water that's about 34 degrees warm, it tells your brain that the pain is not so bad and then people are able to get along," she said. "Not only are they exercising and building their bodies up again, but they're also getting pain relief and that pain relief can last up to 48 hours after a session. The new Tuggeranong hydrotherapy pool is due to open to the public on August 25.
Hindustan Times
25-07-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Monsoon triggering joint pain? Orthopedic and joint replacement surgeon explains what you are doing wrong
Joint pain is defined as discomfort, aches and soreness in any of the joints in the body. Since it is a common complaint, it usually does not require a hospital visit, although it is best to follow some home remedies to tackle it effectively. Beat the monsoon blues: Top 5 doctor-recommended tips to ease joint pain during rainy season.(Image by Pixabay) However, during monsoons, joint pains can increase and sometimes even interfere with the daily chores of a person. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Pramod Bhor, director - orthopedics and joint replacement surgery at Hiranandani Hospital Vashi – A Fortis Network Hospital, explained, 'This is because there is a direct correlation between monsoons and colder climates with joint pain. Due to changes in the humidity levels, atmospheric pressure and the sudden shift in the temperature and precipitation, blood pressure in the blood vessels is impacted.' He added, 'As a result of the increased blood pressure, the body must work harder to pump blood, which can result in more joint pain. In addition, monsoons and colder climates can also lead to dehydration in the body, decreasing fluid concentration and worsening joint pain. Besides joint pain, monsoon can worsen arthritis-related symptoms, especially in people above 60.' Joint pain and stiffness is rather common during monsoon(Freepik) What are the possible causes of joint pain? Understanding the root cause of joint pain is critical as it can help treat the condition effectively. According to Dr Bhor, some common causes of joint pain that can worsen in the monsoon season include: One of the most common causes of joint pain is Arthritis. In India, it is projected that there are at least seven million patients who suffer from Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), which is one of the most common forms of Arthritis. Moreover, Osteoarthritis, the second most common rheumatologic problem in the country, has a prevalence of 22 – 39 per cent in the country. Since Osteoarthritis and RA are degenerative joint diseases, they can cause inflammation, pain, and stiffness. RA and Osteoarthritis cannot be cured, so their symptoms must be tackled through medication and other forms of treatments. However, little is possible to prevent the disease once it has advanced. Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can cause your body to attack itself. Besides damaging the organs and tissues, lupus can also cause pain, stiffness and swelling in the joints. As lupus is a chronic condition and takes a considerable time to diagnose (as it mimics other conditions, ruling out other diseases is time-consuming), some ways to combat this condition include medicines and healthier life choices. Other conditions that can cause stiffness and pain in the affected joints include Bursitis (a condition in which the tiny, fluid-filled sacs in the body, called Bursae that cushion the bones, tendons and muscles near the joint become inflamed), Gout (which is a type of Arthritis that can appear suddenly) and in rare cases Bone Cancer. What are the symptoms of joint pain? Dr Bhor answered, 'In many cases, joint pain, especially during monsoon, will not require medical attention, but there is always an exception to this rule. A person should consult a medical expert when they do not know the reason behind the joint pain and are experiencing other symptoms.' He advised to consult a doctor immediately in the following scenarios: The place around the joint is swollen, red, tender, or warm The discomfort has persisted for more than three days A fever with no other signs of the flu accompanies the ache The pain is a result of a severe injury or accident The joint seems deformed The swelling in the joint occurs suddenly or if it looks immobile The agony in the joint is extreme. Say 'goodbye' to monsoon joint pain: 5 essential tips for pain-free days (Photo by Uzma Mirza) How to treat joint pain in monsoon? Since joint pain in the monsoon is seasonal, Dr Pramod Bhor suggested that making lifestyle changes and combing home remedies with medications can help combat this issue in the long term. Some of them include the following: Aerobic exercises that are easy on joints, like walking, bicycling, swimming and water aerobics, are highly recommended. It is essential to stay physically active throughout the year to ensure that symptoms related to joint pain do not flare up during this time. Doing at least 150 minutes of strenuous aerobic weekly is highly recommended. Further, exercise for ten minutes at a time if that helps to reduce the pain and always consult a doctor before doing anything strenuous. A good diet rich in essential nutrients can go a long way in helping fight inflammation and improve symptoms related to joint pain. For starters, a diet focusing on whole foods, like fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts and beans, and at the same time having minimal amounts of processed foods and saturated fat is ideal for overall health while at the same time helping manage disease activity as well. Some examples of food to add to such a diet include oily fish (Sardines, Mackerel, Salmon and fresh Tuna), dairy (milk, yoghurt and cheese), dark green leafy vegetables (spinach, kale, collard greens), broccoli, green tea, garlic and nuts. Keep yourself warm with warm showers or baths, which can help ease joint pain. If required, dress in layers and increase the heat inside your house to prevent moisture retention, which can increase your symptoms. Consult a doctor for pain medications that can help reduce the severity of joint pain. Get sufficient sleep of at least eight hours. Get enough sleep for at least eight hours. Not getting quality good sleep can lower the threshold for pain, leading to increased joint pain and pain that was felt only in a particular part of the body becoming more widespread. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Health Line
18-07-2025
- Health
- Health Line
Osteoarthritis Complications
Key takeaways Osteoarthritis (OA) can lead to sleep disruption due to pain and stiffness, which can intensify pain and limit mobility. Reduced productivity and weight gain are common complications, as pain and stiffness can decrease activity levels, leading to additional health risks like diabetes and heart disease. OA can also contribute to mental health issues like anxiety and depression, impacting overall quality of life, and may result in other complications like bone death or nerve damage. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a condition that results in joint damage. It's caused by wear and tear of cartilage, the tissue protecting the ends of your bones and joints. This exposes the nerve endings in bones and results in OA pain. OA is the most common form of arthritis. It's degenerative, getting worse with age, but can also occur following injury. Without treatment, chronic pain from OA can lead to complications and can significantly affect your quality of life. What are the symptoms of OA? Common symptoms of OA include: pain, tenderness, and stiffness in joints loss of flexibility bone spurs a grating sensation of bones rubbing together What are the risk factors of OA? Some things put you at a higher risk of getting osteoarthritis, including: Older age: Cartilage deteriorates naturally with age. Gender: Women are more likely to develop OA, though it isn't understood why. Overweight or obese: Extra weight may put more stress on joints. Joint injury: Weak joints are more susceptible to OA. · Hypermobility: Having hypermobile joints or loose ligaments can increase risk. Genetics: Some people inherit the tendency to develop OA. Bone deformities: Being born with malformed bones or cartilage can increase your risk of OA. Certain jobs: Physically demanding jobs or jobs that require repetitive stress on joints can increase your chances of developing OA. What are the complications of OA? For many people, OA is a source of chronic pain that can be exhausting and debilitating. It can also lead to problems with anxiety and depression. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Adults with arthritis are about 2.5 times more likely to experience a fall or injury. In 2015, 15 million U.S. adults said they had severe joint pain from arthritis. About 1 in 25 U.S. adults (ages 18 to 64) name arthritis as a cause of work limitations. In addition to causing pain, there are a number of ways in which OA can impact your life. Sleep disruption Achy, tender joints interfere with restful, restorative sleep. Not getting a full night's sleep can make your pain seem intensified. Stiffness and limited range of motion can also keep you from getting comfortable in bed. Reduced productivity Many people miss multiple days of work per year because of chronic joint pain. Arthritis can also result in a decreased ability to perform normal everyday activities such as: household chores cooking getting dressed exercise and other activities In general, function can be improved with treatment. However, some people with OA may need assistance with simple day-to-day activities. Weight gain Pain and stiffness can decrease your desire to be active. You may stop wanting to participate in activities that used to bring you joy. Arthritis may cause a decreased ability to exercise or even walk. The lack of activity doesn't only limit your enjoyment of life — it can cause weight gain. Extra weight may exacerbate OA symptoms, as well as lead to an increased risk of other complications, including: diabetes hypertension heart disease Anxiety and depression A 2010 study investigated the link between anxiety and depression and OA, finding that the pain of OA symptoms negatively affected mental health. More than 40 percent of the study's participants showed increased anxiety and depression as a result of OA symptoms. Other complications Other complications that can arise from OA include: bone death (osteonecrosis) stress fractures bleeding or infection in joints deterioration of tendons and ligaments around joints pinched nerve, in OA of the spine What are the treatment options for OA? There's no cure for OA, so treatment aims to manage symptoms and improve joint function, flexibility, and balance. This helps prevent falls which can lead to fractures. It's important to control pain while increasing mobility and joint functioning. Physical therapy can help increase mobility. Exercise is key to staying limber and maintaining your weight. But be careful not to overuse your joints and make symptoms worse. Take frequent breaks when exercising. There are many medications available to relieve OA pain, including acetaminophen (Tylenol) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen. Corticosteroid injections can be given directly into joints to help reduce swelling and relieve pain, and injections of viscosupplements may provide extra cushioning in joints. Depending on the severity of your OA, your doctor may suggest surgery to replace entire joints. Alternative practices can help increase mobility, reduce stress, and improve your general outlook on life. These include: tai chi yoga acupuncture water therapy such as swimming or exercising in a hot tub What's the long-term outlook for people with OA? Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition. If left untreated, it'll get worse with time. Although death from OA is rare, it's a significant cause of disability among adults. It's important to talk to your doctor if OA is impacting your quality of life. Surgery to replace joints may be an option, as well as pain medication and lifestyle changes.
