Destructive joint degeneration: Signs, origins, remedies
Erosive Osteoarthritis (EOA) is a form of osteoarthritis that causes joint damage and inflammation, often affecting the hands and feet. While its symptoms may resemble those of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), people with EOA will test negative for the rheumatoid factor, which can attack healthy tissue in RA patients [1].
Current treatment options for EOA primarily focus on managing symptoms, reducing inflammation, and improving joint function. Physical therapy is a common approach, targeting joint mobility and strengthening muscles around affected joints to provide better support and reduce pain [1]. Medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroid injections, are also used to control pain and inflammation [1].
In severe cases, surgical interventions like joint replacement or bone fusion may be considered [2]. Occupational therapy can help maintain the range and motion of joints, suggest modifications or assistive devices, and provide splints to support the joints [1].
New treatments are being investigated to address EOA more effectively. For example, a polymersome-based co-delivery system encapsulating anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents has shown enhanced cartilage regeneration and reduced inflammation in preclinical OA models [3]. Regenerative strategies like autologous chondrocyte implantation and osteochondral autograft transfer are being explored, though they are currently more experimental and primarily applied to focal cartilage defects [2].
Researchers are also studying the effectiveness of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDS) against EOA. However, current findings suggest they are no more effective than placebos [1]. Two recent studies have examined whether hydroxychloroquine or methotrexate might help with disease progression. While methotrexate might be able to halt the progression of joint damage to some extent, further research is necessary [1].
It is important to note that people who suspect they may be developing EOA should speak with a healthcare professional as soon as they can to prevent the condition from progressing [1]. As with any medical condition, early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and management.
References:
[1] Arthritis Research UK. (2019). Erosive Osteoarthritis. Retrieved from https://www.arthritisresearchuk.org/arthritis-information/conditions/erosive-osteoarthritis.aspx
[2] Mayo Clinic. (2020). Erosive Osteoarthritis. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/erosive-osteoarthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20377850
[3] Li, L., Chen, S., Wang, X., et al. (2018). Polymersome-based co-delivery system for sustained release of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents for osteoarthritis therapy. ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, 10(41), 30973-30983. doi: 10.1021/acsami.8b12448
- In the realm of science and medical-conditions, researchers are investigating new treatments to address Erosive Osteoarthritis (EOA) more effectively, as chronic diseases like this require continuous health-and-wellness management.
- Fitness-and-exercise and physical therapy can help manage EOA symptoms by improving joint function, reducing inflammation, and providing better support to affected joints.
- While disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDS) are often used to treat chronic-diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, current research suggests they are no more effective against EOA than placebos.
- Chronic-kidney-disease is not typically associated with EOA, but it is crucial to maintain overall health-and-wellness, especially for people dealing with chronic-diseases like EOA, as it may impact their quality of life in various ways.
- Women going through menopause may also experience joint pain and stiffness in their hands and feet, symptoms similar to EOA. Skin-care and womens-health professionals should be aware of this potential connection and provide appropriate advice on managing these symptoms.
