Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It is generated by the wear of the cartilage in the joints, which produces stiffness, chronic pain and limitations in physical activity. Although it can affect any joint, it occurs most often in the hands.
According to Medline Plus, a website of the United States National Library of Medicine, osteoarthritis is generated because “healthy cartilage absorbs the impacts of movement, but when it wears down, the bones rub against each other. Over time, this friction can permanently damage the joint.”
Likewise, the Arthritis Foundation indicates that by 2025 the disease will present an increase of 16%. In addition, he stated that there are several factors that increase the risk of developing this condition. These include genetics, obesity, joint injuries, repeated overuse of certain joints, muscle weakness, and nerve injuries.
As for symptoms, they often develop slowly and worsen over time, experts say. In addition to those mentioned, loss of flexibility may occurwhich is when the joint cannot be moved in its full range of motion, specifies the specialized portal Cinfasalud.
Treatments for osteoarthritis are varied and depend on how chronic the disease is. Consequently, only the doctor can determine what exercises and medications are necessary for each person; in this way, the other comorbidities that may be present will not be affected.
Likewise, you can ask the specialist about natural and home remedies to control the condition and keep the symptoms at bay. For example, according to the Healthline portal, it is possible to turn to ginger to reduce pain and stiffness.
According to an investigation cited by the media, in the consumption of this plant as a treatment for osteoarthritis, few side effects were evidenced and are related to the strong flavor provided by ginger.
“The taste of ginger, coupled with an upset stomach, led nearly 22 percent of study participants to drop out.”explains Healthline. These people were diagnosed with this pathology and received between 500 milligrams and one gram of ginger for 12 weeks.
It should be noted that, in addition to ginger, the Better with Health portal recommends eat plenty of colorful vegetables and fruits throughout the day, because its contribution of antioxidants can help prevent cell damage and protect the joints. In addition, they help reduce inflammation and pain.
They also advise the use of olive oil. This should be the preferred option for cooking and dressing all kinds of dishes, since scientific analyzes have proven the preventive effect of cartilage damage.
Another product that should be added to the diet is oily fish, which contains omega-3 fatty acids. This type of polyunsaturated lipids have an anti-inflammatory effect. In patients with osteoarthritis they could improve stiffness and joint pain. The ideal is to consume it at least twice a week.
Likewise, the intake of vitamin C and D should be increased, since they play an important role in osteoarticular health. C is necessary for the synthesis of collagen and connective tissue, while D is essential for muscle strength and balance, as well as being the one that strengthens bones.
The best sources of vitamin C are found in pineapple, oranges, strawberries, kiwi, broccoli, and red bell pepper. On the other hand, vitamin D is abundant in fish oil, egg yolks, oily fish and milk.