General Information About Osteoarthritis
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
The reason it is colloquially called "calcification" in Turkish is that the body forms sharp and hard bone protrusions (osteophytes) resembling limestone at the edges of the joints in response to the worn bones rubbing against each other.
Rheumatism is the immune system attacking the joint like a germ at a young age, and it hurts a lot while resting (at night). Osteoarthritis, however, is entirely dependent on aging and mechanical wear; it subsides with rest, and causes pain while walking or moving (as the load increases).
It is very commonly seen, especially in the Knee and Hip joints, which carry all the body's weight. It can also affect the neck, lumbar vertebrae, and the very end finger joints of the hands, causing the fingers to become crooked.
A normal X-ray taken while the patient is standing (putting weight on the joint), ordered by the orthopedist, is more than sufficient for diagnosis. The X-ray clearly shows that the black cartilage space between the bones has completely disappeared and the bones are touching each other.
The first and most powerful treatment in the early stage is Losing Weight and Physical Therapy that strengthens leg muscles. Intra-articular fluid supplements (PRP, Hyaluronic Acid) lubricate the cartilage and slow down the process.
However, if the cartilage is completely gone and the bones are rubbing against each other, THERE IS NO DRUG/CREAM/INJECTION IN THE WORLD to bring it back. If the patient's night sleep is disrupted and they cannot walk, Knee or Hip Replacement Surgery, where the deteriorated joints are cut and replaced with a Titanium Artificial Joint, is the only definitive and permanent solution.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
