Did you know that arthrosis e osteoporosis are not the same thing and that there are several particularities that distinguish these two diseases? It is super common for many people to confuse these pathologies because they are conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system, of which bones and joints are part.
But anyone who is a doctor and an expert on the subject knows exactly how to distinguish these problems. To celebrate Osteoporosis Week and thinking about helping you understand what arthrosis and osteoporosis are, we invite the Orthopedist Paulo Kanaji for an interview. The specialist clarified the symptoms of each disease and recommended the ideal treatment for these conditions. Check it out!
Osteoarthritis and osteoporosis: what are the differences between the two diseases?
If by chance you thought that arthrosis and osteoporosis were the same problem, don’t feel bad, because many people make the same mistake. But specialist Paulo Kanji guarantees that these diseases are very different in practically all pillars, from symptoms, causes to forms of treatment.
What is arthrosis?
Also known as osteoarthritis, is a condition that causes wear and tear of the cartilage that covers the joints, structures that connect the bones. The disease is the result of a natural process that takes place over the years, but can be accelerated by repetitive effort, by obesity and rheumatic diseases. Among the main symptoms of arthrosis are pain, swelling and stiffness. “Over time, the cartilage can completely wear away, causing the bones to rub against each other, causing severe pain and limitation of movement,” explains Dr. Kanaji.
What is Osteoporosis?
If arthrosis affects the joints and cartilage, osteoporosis affects bone density and structure. This means that over time, bones become weaker and more prone to fractures. “The bones become porous and thinner, so even a small impact or a fall can cause a fracture. The areas most often affected by the disease are the spine, hips and wrists”, says the doctor.
symptoms of osteoporosis are not common, appearing only when a fracture occurs. Another difference between osteoarthritis and osteoporosis is the age range in which each disease begins to develop. “Arthrosis is more common in people over 65 years old, while osteoporosis is very common in women after menopause and in older men”, clarifies the orthopedist.
How to treat arthrosis? It is important to focus on joint improvement
O arthrosis treatment involves a combination of measures, including changes in routine and use of medication, but with the differential in performing physical therapy. “Lifestyle changes help relieve pain and improve joint function and can include weight loss, muscle-strengthening exercises, and physical therapy aimed at improving mobility and reducing pain. Occupational therapy also helps adapt the home environment to facilitate daily activities,” says Dr. Kanaji.
But in addition to these non-invasive methods, there are also surgeries for people with severe osteoarthritis that do not improve with other therapies. Among the options for surgical procedures that can be performed are the replacement of all or part of the joint affected by a prosthesis. It is worth mentioning that the treatment of osteoarthritis is individualized and depends on the needs and circumstances of each person.
Osteoporosis treatment: orthopedist recommends lifestyle changes
doctor Kanaji explains that osteoporosis treatment is aimed at reducing the risk of fractures and improving bone density: “Treatment can involve a combination of lifestyle changes, including a healthy, calcium-rich diet and vitamin D, exercises using body weight, muscle-strengthening exercises, medications, and hormone replacement therapy”. All of these measures help preserve bone health.
Hormone-lowering therapy (HRT) may be an option for menopausal women, as reduced estrogen levels after this period are a major factor in bone loss, but caution is required. “HRT can help increase bone density and reduce the risk of fracturesbut it also has a high chance of increasing the risk of breast cancer and other side effects”, warned the doctor.
It is also important to point out that the osteoporosis treatment it is individualized and depends on each person’s needs and circumstances. It’s important to see a doctor to discuss treatment options and find the best approach for you.
Arthritis and osteoarthritis points of attention
Both osteoarthritis and osteoporosis can get worse if they are not treated as soon as possible. doctor Kanaji says that if this happens, osteoporosis can increase the risk of painful and debilitating fractures: “bone fractures can lead to serious complications such as physical disability and even death in some cases. However, with proper treatment, it is possible to reduce the risk of fractures and improve bone density.”
Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, can cause pain, limiting a person’s ability to perform everyday activities, such as walking around the house or climbing stairs. However, the doctor assures that arthrosis is not a life-threatening disease and treatment can help relieve pain and improve joint function. An early diagnosis is capable of restoring the patient’s quality of life.
Do not neglect your health! Seek professional help if you feel something is wrong and follow up with your doctor regularly to catch any problems early.
The post Care for Life.
Source: cuidadospelavida.com.br
