Are You Suffering From Post-Traumatic Arthritis?

When someone injures a joint in a car accident, he or she is at risk of developing post-traumatic arthritis, which is a painful and debilitating condition of the joints.

Post-traumatic osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis involving inflammation of the joints, is a common auto accident injury.

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the eroding or wearing of the cartilage that cushions the bones. The primary function of the cartilage is to prevent the rubbing of bones against each other, so when the cartilage becomes damaged, the bones rub against each other causing severe pain. It can occur in any joint in the body, but it is most commonly observed in the spine, hips, knees, and hands. There is no cure for osteoarthritis and treatment can only help relieve the pain and discomfort.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Unlike osteoarthritis that normally occurs in the elderly, post-traumatic arthritis can occur in people of all age groups. Auto accident-related trauma is a common cause of arthritis. Whenever physical trauma causes damage to bone or cartilage, it can change the mechanics of the joint, causing it to wear out more quickly. In the United States, as many as 5.6 million people suffer from post-traumatic arthritis.

Signs and Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Arthritis

The signs and symptoms of post-traumatic arthritis are similar to those of osteoarthritis. They include:

• chronic joint pain
• swelling of the joints
• joint stiffness
• fluid accumulation in the joint
• bone spurs
• difficulty with activities that stress the joint
• limited range of motion

Treatment of Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Unfortunately, osteoarthritis is not curable or reversible. Treatment is aimed at alleviating the symptoms and discomfort and to stop its progression. The patient of post-traumatic arthritis may be advised to lose weight, do some low impact exercises, and strengthen the surrounding muscles.

Doctors may prescribe anti-inflammatory medicines to reduce swelling and painkillers to alleviate pain. In severe cases, a doctor may inject cortisone or an artificial fluid into the joints. If medicines do not work for the patient, then he or she may have to undergo surgery for the repair, reconstruction, or replacement of the affected joint.

St. Louis Car Accident Injuries