OSTEOARTHRITIS

PRECIPITATING FACTORS
o
o

PREDISPOSING FACTORS

Excessive weightlifting activities

Overuse

o Age: 69 years old

o Gender: Female

Decrease in proteoglycan content in

the bone matrix

Softening and loss of elasticity by

the cartilage

Body attempts to compensate

Chondrocytes initially proliferate
and increase their synthesis of
proteoglycans and collagen

Progressive destruction of
lysosomal enzymes outweighs its
production
Cartilage becomes increasingly
susceptible to joint friction
Changes in Collagen synthesis,
minimizing compressibility of the
cartilage
Collagen fibers rupture

Fibrillation, erosion, and cracking

appear in the superficial layer of
cartilage
Cartilage becomes yellowed and
wornCentral
over articular
loss ofsurfaces,
cartilage bone
growth
increases
at joint margins
and
accompanied
by buildup
of cartilage
bony
outgrows
develop
and bone
peripherally

Clinical Manifestations
Pain, restricted motion, difficulty moving
the joints, crepitations, swelling, Heberdens
Nodes, Bouchards Nodes

Diagnostic & Laboratory Exams

Laboratory

Diagnostic

Joint fluid analysis

CBC
C-Reactive Protein
ESR

Medical Management
NSAID (OTC)

X-Ray
MRI
CT Scan
Arthroscopy
Arthrocentesis

Nursing Management
Diet
Regular Exercise
Avoid high-impact
sports/activities
Hot soaks