No abstract

No abstract

ALSO KNOWN AS degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive breakdown and loss of articular cartilage in one or more joints caused by continued inflammation and cytokine production. 1 Affecting up to 70% of Americans between ages 55 and 74, it' s the most prevalent form of arthritis and is a prominent cause of disability and pain in older adults. As the population ages, the incidence of OA is expected to grow, creating an additional burden on the healthcare system. 2 This article takes a look at OA and how it' s diagnosed and treated, and also reviews appropriate nursing care to help patients manage the disease.Understanding OA Articular cartilage is composed of water (65% to 80%), along with a matrix of collagen, chondrocytes (cartilage-producing cells), and proteoglycans (glycoproteins composed of chondroitin, keratan sulfate, and other substances). 2-4 With aging or trauma to the joint, a loss of proteoglycans occurs. In addition, as people age, the synovial fluid that provides lubrication and nutrition to the joints also decreases, leading to OA.With disease progression, the cartilage and bone beneath the cartilage begin to erode, promoting development of osteocytes (bone spurs), calcifications, fissures, and ulcerations in the joint. 2