My mother was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in her knees. Not knowing too much about the condition, I did some research and realized that this affects more people than I thought. It is an extremely common type of arthritis, also known as degenerative arthritis. I read some facts on their Web site. They explain,

“Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that is caused by the breakdown and eventual loss of the cartilage of one or more joints. Cartilage is a protein substance that serves as a “cushion” between the bones of the joints.”

It is most commonly seen in women around age 55. Men tend to get it a little earlier in life, around age 45. Although heredity plays a big part in who has osteoarthritis, it is mainly caused simply by aging. The heavy-weight bearing bones overtime degenerate (hence the nickname degenerative arthritis) and just like rocks eroding in nature, the cartilage eventually gets worn down.

Aside from limiting your activity and taking prescription medicine, mainly to reduce inflammation, injections and surgery are your only options for long-term relief. The injections, however, leave a bit to be desired. You basically get a few shots in the affected area, a few times a year to temorarily reduce swelling and bring fluid to the area. I can definitely think of a few other things I’d rather do than get some needles under my kneecap!

The other, and most common, procedure is half or full knee replacement surgery. Ok, I know it sounds scary, but it is actually extremely advanced and very effective. In this surgery, the degenerated part of your knee is removed and is replaced with artificial material. This not only gives almost instant pain relief and returns your mobility, but will last for up to 20 years. Replacement surgery is becoming more and more popular among osteoarthiritic candidates.

When I first heard about my mother’s diagnosis, I, of course, was worried for her. After researching the topic, however, I am so happy for her. This surgery returns you to your normal life. There will be no more sleepless nights because the pain is so severe it wakes you up. There will be no more debating whether you should try to walk up the stairs and maybe pay for it later. No more jumping from medicine to medicine in hopes of temporarily relieving the pain. Do some research, be brave, keep the dream in your head of getting your old life back and get help today.