Osteoarthritis: A Short Story: 'You Only Live Once'
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YOLO. “You Only Live Once,” this was the mantra of J.D., an adventure-seeking, single, 30-year-old office employee. He joined marathons, played basketball, and went out-of-town every chance he got. Recently, he was promoted, he is at the top of his game.
After participating in the company marathon, J.D. felt a sharp pain in his right knee. It was relieved by paracetamol. Several weeks passed of continued exercise and sports activities he then had progressively, dull to sharp pain in his knees and hips at night. He felt stiffness and heard popping sounds around his knees.
One day, his right knee was swollen and even standing was difficult leaving J.D. with no choice, but to file sick leave from work. Upon the insistence of his girlfriend, J.D. reluctantly consulted a physician thinking there was nothing seriously wrong with him - he was young and fit after all.…show more content… I am just 30 you know!? Arthritis is for senior citizens.” J.D. couldn’t believe it. He was diagnosed with osteoarthritis.
What is osteoarthritis?
It is inevitable for the physique to show signs of wear and tear, thus aches and pains. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis and is often encountered by the elderly, however, younger individuals below 40 years old can also be afflicted. Apart from advanced age, factors such as overuse, trauma, obesity, metabolic disease, congenital malformations, premature menopause, and genetics place both men and women at risk of developing OA. Runners and athletes are more prone to joint injuries.
Due to stress and overuse, the joints become unstable and the articular cartilages become denuded. Joint cartilage loss results to bones rubbing against another bones which causes pain, swelling, stiffness, and restricted joint movement. Typically, the joint damage occurs in the hands, lower back, neck, and the weight-bearing joints such as the hips, knees, and