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While there are many benefits to getting older, few people associate the aging process with all the good things that occur as a person approaches their golden years. Instead, aging is more often associated with aches and pains than grandkids and trips around the world.

Though such associations are unfortunate, they are rooted in the reality that aging often comes with a few ailments. One such ailment many older adults deal with is osteoarthritis (OA) which, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 46 million adults have some form of arthritis, and in Western New York, about 31% of us have doctor-diagnosed arthritis. But learning about OA, its risk factors and prospective treatment options can help those currently living with the condition.

Also referred to as degenerative joint disease, (OA) occurs when cartilage begins to wear away, reducing ability of the joint to absorb shock and move smoothly. It often occurs in the body’s weight-bearing joints – the hips, knees and spine. When joint cartilage stiffens it loses elasticity, and is more susceptible to damage. Joint stiffness, particularly the knees, occurs in the morning, and often lasts from 15-20 minutes. As the day progresses and joints are used more, pain and swelling can intensify.

Some people experience few symptoms of OA even if x-rays indicate their joints have undergone significant degeneration, and can go years without experiencing any pain. This is more common among young people with OA of the knees. Some people become bow legged or develop a limp, which worsens as the cartilage degenerates further. OA of the spine often causes pain in the neck or lower back. Severe pain, numbness and tingling of affected body parts can also occur. The Arthritis Society notes that many with OA find their symptoms are triggered by high impact activities. Eventually the pain occurs from simple daily activities.

OA can be treated, but not cured. It is most common among people who are overweight, so one of the most effective ways to reduce pain is to lose weight and get regular exercise. Traditional treatments include hot and cold pads, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NASIDs), and corticosteroid injections.

One new groundbreaking treatment – Gel-One Hyaluronate (Gel-One) – was recently introduced at the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. It is a single injection treatment for OA of the knee. During the procedure a thick fluid called hyaluronic acid, which naturally occurs in the body, is injected into the knee joint, to lubricate bones so they move smoothly over each other and act as a shock absorber. In a recent clinical study Gel-One patients receiving Gel-One experienced, on average, a nearly 40 percent reduction in pain.

If your arthritis is not responding well or if you are trying to delay surgery, you may wish to discuss this option with your orthopedic surgeon.

For more information on Gel-One, contact your physician and visit www.zimmer.com. Learn more about OA at www.arthritis.org. TF123878