Osteoarthritis is a rheumatic joint disease that affects one in four Swedes over the age of 45, mainly the elderly but also the overweight. Most sufferers find it difficult to walk, but may also experience what is known as "recumbent pain". The reason for the pain is that the cartilage in the joint weakens and can disappear completely. The cartilage is lubricated by synovial fluid and if this supply stops, the cartilage wears out quickly. As a result, the ball of the hip joint has no cushioning effect and when the friction stops, the area becomes inflamed. One cause of the problem may be excessive and heavy loading of the joints, but many other factors play a role in the development of this disease. With more and more young people affected, science is looking for other answers to the disease.
Training and exercise counteract most diseases and help to avoid osteoarthritis. Putting more stress on the joints increases the production of synovial fluid, but if the production decreases anyway, medication is the way to go. Glucosamine affects the cartilage in the joints and helps with mild osteoarthritis. Anti-inflammatory medication and painkillers are often necessary to reduce pain, but in some cases hip replacement surgery is needed.
When you exercise, you lay the foundation for the health of your body and mind. With the help of various devices, even those affected can exercise more. For example, you can use shoes with a cushioning sole and inserts that absorb the shocks of jogging and walking. Compression support stockings help blood circulation, which also facilitates exercise. Strengthening the body's posture with back supports, posture vests and posture bands helps to improve the body's balance, reducing the risk of one-sided strain. Supports and back corsets can help with both movement and sleeping posture, allowing the body to get more rest during the night to avoid sleep disturbances due to pain. Liniments and other ointments allow better blood flow to muscles and reduce inflammation. So don't hesitate to get and use aids right from the start.
