Osteoarthritis
What is Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis. It happens when the smooth covering (cartilage) that cushions the ends of bones slowly wears down. This makes the bones rub against each other, leading to joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. It usually develops with age, but can also occur due to injury or extra stress on the joints.
Causes
- Aging and natural wear of joints
- Being overweight (puts more pressure on knees and hips)
- Old injuries or repeated stress on a joint
- Family history of osteoarthritis
- Poor posture or abnormal joint structure
Symptoms
Pain in joints (worse with movement, better with rest)
Stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting for long
Cracking or grinding sound in joints
Swelling around joints
Reduced movement and flexibility
In long-term cases: visible joint deformities (like bent fingers or bow-legs)
Homeopathic Perspective
Homeopathy looks at the person as a whole rather than just the joint. The aim is to reduce pain, stiffness, and slow down the wear and tear process. Remedies are chosen according to individual symptoms. Commonly considered medicines include:
- Rhus toxicodendron – for stiffness and pain that gets better with movement
- Bryonia – for pain worse on slightest movement, better by rest
- Calcarea carbonica – for joint pains in overweight or chilly patients
- Arnica – for soreness after exertion or old joint injuries
(Remedies must be prescribed by a qualified homeopath after detailed case study.)
Precautions & Lifestyle
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Do regular light exercises (walking, yoga, swimming)
- Avoid heavy strain on joints (running on hard surfaces, lifting heavy loads)
- Use warm compresses for stiffness and cold compresses for swelling
- Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and anti-inflammatory foods
- Stay positive and active – movement keeps joints healthier
