What does OA mean in ACADEMIC & SCIENCE

Common symptoms of osteoarthritis include pain, stiffness, tenderness, swelling or redness in the affected area. Other symptoms may include grinding or creaking noises when moving the affected joints, decreased range of motion and/or limited ability to do activities due to pain or stiffness.

The exact cause of osteoarthritis is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of factors such as age-related wear-and-tear, genetics and lifestyle factors such as being overweight or having an injury to the joint.

An osteoarthritis diagnosis generally involves physical examination followed by imaging studies such as x-rays and MRI scans. Blood tests may also be used to check for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.

There is currently no cure for osteoarthritis, however there are treatments available that can help reduce pain and inflammation and improve joint function. These treatments may involve medications, physical therapy exercises or even surgery in severe cases.

Lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms of OA by helping you maintain a healthy weight, reducing stress on the joints with regular exercise and using assistive devices such as walking aids when needed. Eating a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables can also help reduce inflammation associated with OA.