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On the occasion of World Osteoarthritis Day, observed on September 17, medical experts are emphasizing that osteoarthritis is not an inevitable consequence of aging. Dr. Anouar Cherkaoui, in collaboration with Professor Abdellah El Maghraoui, president of the Moroccan Society of Rheumatology, stated that a diagnosis of osteoarthritis does not necessitate a sedentary lifestyle or the expectation of inevitable joint deterioration.
Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disease, affecting approximately 528 million people globally. Contrary to common misconceptions, the condition involves the entire joint, including cartilage, bone, the synovial membrane, ligaments, and muscles. While age is a risk factor, the disease can also affect younger individuals due to joint injuries, repetitive physical stress, obesity, or genetic factors.
Medical professionals highlight that there is often a discrepancy between radiological findings and the severity of pain experienced by patients. Some individuals may show significant joint changes on X-rays with minimal symptoms, while others may experience severe pain despite less visible structural changes. Consequently, experts advise against focusing solely on imaging results, urging a patient-centered approach that prioritizes pain management, mobility, and quality of life.
Physical activity and muscle strengthening are identified as fundamental components of treatment. Experts recommend activities such as walking, cycling, swimming, and water-based exercises to protect joints and maintain independence. While patients may experience temporary discomfort when resuming activity, this does not necessarily indicate further damage. For patients with obesity, weight management is also cited as a critical factor in reducing symptoms and improving mobility.
Regarding pharmacological and procedural interventions, experts note that while analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs can manage pain, they must be used under medical supervision. The efficacy of dietary supplements like chondroitin and glucosamine, as well as hyaluronic acid injections and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, remains subject to debate in medical guidelines, with experts cautioning against viewing these as universal solutions.
Surgical intervention, such as joint replacement, is considered an option only when pain and functional limitations significantly impact a patient’s quality of life and persist despite comprehensive medical management. Early, specialized intervention remains the most effective strategy for maintaining long-term mobility and independence.
Article source: www.alalam.ma | Image credit: www.alalam.ma
