Chronic Osteoarthritis Pain
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common forms of arthritis.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) defines osteoarthritis as a
joint disease that mostly affects cartilage. Cartilage is the
slippery tissue that covers the ends of bones in a joint. Healthy
cartilage allows bones to glide over each other. It also helps
absorb the shock of movement.
With osteoarthritis, the top layer of cartilage wears away – causing
the bones underneath the cartilage to rub together. This rubbing can
cause pain, swelling, and less motion. Over time, the joint may lose
its shape, and bone spurs may grow on the edges of the joint.
Sometimes bits of bone or cartilage can break off and float inside
the joint space, causing more pain and damage.
If you think you may suffer from chronic pain, complete a
pain profile to take to your doctor –
and ask if
ULTRAM ER is right for you.
The facts:
- Osteoarthritis affects nearly 21 million people in America age 25 and older.
- By the age of 65, half of the population shows signs of having osteoarthritis in at least one joint.
- After the age of 45, women are more affected by osteoarthritis than men.
What causes osteoarthritis?
The cause of osteoarthritis is unknown, but may be caused by factors, such as:
- Being overweight
- Getting older
- Joint injury
- Genetic defects in joints or cartilage
- Stresses on the joints from certain activities
The warning signs.
The most common symptoms of osteoarthritis are:
- Joint stiffness after sitting or laying down for a long time
- Swelling or tenderness in one or more joints
- A crunching feeling, or the sound of bones rubbing together
How is osteoarthritis pain treated?
Doctors often combine osteoarthritis treatments to fit a patient's needs, lifestyle and health. The 4 main goals of osteoarthritis treatment are to:
- Improve joint function through both rest and exercise
- Keep a healthy body weight
- Control pain
- Achieve a healthy lifestyle
Osteoarthritis pain treatment plans can involve:
- Exercise
- Weight control
- Rest and joint care
- Medication
- Alternative therapies (herbal remedies, acupuncture, etc.)
- Surgery
ULTRAM ER is an effective treatment for moderate to moderately severe chronic pain and may be a part of an osteoarthritis pain treatment plan.
