Frequently asked questions

1. What is arthritis?

   Arthritis is a general word for joint inflammation. It can affect people of all ages, races, and ethnic groups. What exactly causes most types of arthritis is unknown. But scientists are studying the role of factors such as genetics, lifestyle, auto immune disorders, and environment in the various types of arthritis. The two most common forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

2. What causes osteoarthritis?

   Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. Although the exact cause of osteoarthritis is not known, it happens when tissue at the end of the joints – called the cartilage – breaks down over time and becomes thin and cracked. Osteoarthritis is most commonly found in the knees, hips, hands, or spine, though it can occur in any joint.

3. How does osteoarthritis differ from rheumatoid arthritis?

   Rheumatoid arthritis is the second most common form of arthritis. Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis is an auto immune disease in which the body’s defence system mistakenly attacks itself. In rheumatoid arthritis, the lining of a joint is attacked by the immune system cells causing inflammation (swelling). Once inflamed, the bone releases chemicals that damage the cartilage, tendons, and ligaments near the joint. Eventually the joint itself is destroyed. Find out more about rheumatoid arthritis.

4. How is osteoarthritis diagnosed?

   To diagnose osteoarthritis your doctor will take a detailed medical history and ask you questions about your symptoms. He or she will also examine your joints. You may need an x-ray and blood test.

5. What should I do if I think I have osteoarthritis?

   If you have pain and stiffness in your joints you should talk to your doctor, especially if the symptoms are bothersome and are stopping you from doing things you used to be able to do. The sooner you talk to your doctor the sooner you can work out a plan to help manage your symptoms so that they do not interfere with your activities.

6. Is it safe to take painkillers for joint pain?

   There are a number of drugs that will ease the pain of osteoarthritis and that are available from your pharmacist without a prescription. However, these can cause side effects, particularly if you take them regularly. For that treason it’s important to talk to your GP about the best treatment for you. You may also want to ask about more powerful analgesics that your doctor can prescribe for joint pain caused by osteoarthritis.

7. I love running and tennis. Can I continue exercising with osteoarthritis?

   Yes, you can. Exercise is a really good way to keep your joints healthy, relieve stiffness, reduce pain and stress, and improve your muscle strength. Talk to your GP about the safest way to exercise with osteoarthritis.

8. What are the best natural remedies for osteoarthritis?

   There are many types of natural arthritis pain relief on sale in pharmacies and health food shops as well as online, including glucosamine and omega 3 rich fish oil. Some arthritis herbal remedies are also popular, including Devil’s claw and Feverfew. However, there is little evidence that these are effective.

9. Is there a special diet I should follow if I have osteoarthritis?

   There is no osteoarthritis diet as such. However, it’s important to eat a balanced diet and achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Some experts have suggested that omega 3 found in oily fish such as mackerel, may be helpful.

10. Why me?

    Getting a diagnosis of osteoarthritis can be a shock. Remember that hundreds of thousands of people with this type of arthritis lead fulfilling lives.