Arthritis & Osteoarthritis

Overview

Arthritis encompasses a group of conditions characterised by inflammation of one or more joints, with osteoarthritis (OA) being by far the most common form. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease where the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time. It most commonly affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine. In Lahore, as across Pakistan, osteoarthritis is a leading cause of chronic pain and disability, particularly in the ageing population.

Understanding Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis develops gradually and worsens over time. It is not simply a consequence of ageing — it results from a combination of mechanical wear, genetic predisposition, previous joint injury, and metabolic factors. The joint space narrows as cartilage is lost, bone spurs may form, and the surrounding ligaments and muscles may weaken. Common symptoms include joint pain that worsens with activity, stiffness after periods of rest, reduced range of motion, grating or crackling sensation (crepitus), and visible swelling.

Other Types of Arthritis

• Rheumatoid arthritis — an autoimmune condition causing systemic joint inflammation
• Post-traumatic arthritis — arthritis that develops after a joint injury
• Gout — crystal-deposition arthritis causing acute episodes of severe pain

Treatment Options

Dr. Hannan manages arthritis using a stepwise approach. Early and moderate stages may be managed with weight management, low-impact exercise, physiotherapy, and analgesic or anti-inflammatory medication. Joint injections (corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid) may provide relief for moderate symptoms. When the joint is severely damaged and conservative measures no longer provide adequate relief, joint replacement surgery (TKR or THR) is discussed as a definitive option, with realistic expectations about recovery and long-term outcomes.