WHAT CAUSES ARTHRITIS AMONG THE ELDERLY? DOES EVERYONE GET ARTHRITIS AS THEY AGE

WHAT CAUSES ARTHRITIS AMONG THE ELDERLY? DOES EVERYONE GET ARTHRITIS AS THEY AGE

by Dr. Shailendra Patil

Posted on 12th May, 2023 at 5:29:15 AM


You may have seen older people have difficulty walking and bending due to knee joint pain. Usually, it happens because of arthritis in the legs or foot joints.

According to a report 31% of adults aged 45 to 65 and 50% of seniors 65 and older are diagnosed with arthritis. Adults with arthritis get robotic joint replacement surgery in Mumbai to relieve symptoms.

However, knee replacement is difficult, so you should avoid developing arthritis. Some characteristics and behaviors can increase the risk of developing arthritis as you grow older. Hence, you should learn about the risk factors for this condition and adapt to a healthy lifestyle to minimize the risk of developing it.

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is an orthopedic condition in which a person has joint pain and stiffness that worsen with time. This condition has several types, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, infectious arthritis, etc. This condition is common in older people but can also happen to younger people. It can also affect mental health and the ability to participate in and perform tasks in physical activity.

Why is arthritis common in older people?

Age is one of the common factors that contribute to the condition of arthritis. As people age, their risk of getting this joint disorder also increases. People should see an orthopedic surgeon in Thane when they reach age 45 or above to estimate their risk of arthritis.

Other factors in arthritis

Other risk factors for arthritis include the following:

  • Family history, as some people get this joint disorder from their family’s genetics.
  • The gender of a person impacts the type of arthritis they may develop.
  • People with excess weight are more likely to develop this condition, as it puts more pressure on their knee joints.
  • If you have had a previous joint injury for any reason, you will develop this condition as you grow older.

Symptoms of Arthritis in elderly people

Here are a few symptoms of arthritis in older people.

  • Pain
  • Stiffness
  • Swelling
  • Tenderness
  • Redness
  • Warmth
  • Decrease range of motion

If you have the above symptoms, see a knee surgeon in Mumbai.

Diagnosis and treatment available for arthritis

Doctors start with a physical exam to check the joints for common, visible symptoms of arthritis. However, doctors also tell people to get these tests done to confirm the diagnosis, including:

  • Lab tests that include blood, urine, or other joint fluids
  • Imaging tests include an MRI, CT scan, X-ray, or ultrasound.

Generally, doctors first prescribe medication as a treatment for arthritis. However, if the person doesn’t experience any relief from the joint and bone pain, the doctor may recommend surgery, therapy, joint repair, joint fusion, or a joint replacement treatment option.

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