Your skeletal system protects your vital organs from external injuries and provides your body the structure that it needs for daily movement. Bone deterioration is a common result of aging and is a critical concern for most adults since symptoms may greatly affect the quality of their lives. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease which worsens over time and can lead to permanent damage if left untreated.
What is osteoarthritis?
According to Mayo Clinic, osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common forms of arthritis usually found in adults aged 40 and above. OA is simply described as “a degenerative condition that is the result of increased wear and tear on the joints.” The Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Network explains that the affected area will eventually develop inflammatory symptoms which can destroy joint cartilage over time.
Osteoarthritis may affect important joints in your body like your hips, knees, and hands.
Symptoms
Manifestations of OA slowly develop over the years and can also affect young people who recently suffered from physical injuries. Some common symptoms include:
- Pain in the affected area
- Bone growth (bone spurs) around the edges of your joints
- Stiff sensation after a period of inactivity like sleeping
- Limited movement range
- Soreness
- “Grating” feeling after movement
- Obvious physical deformity
Who are at risk?
- Older adults
- Women
- Those who are obese
- Family medical history of OA
- Certain jobs requiring heavy lifting and strenuous movements
- Athletes and those engaging in intense activities
Diagnosis
Your doctor may perform an initial physical examination to determine if you have osteoarthritis. You may need to undergo additional tests like x-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) so your doctor can see accurate photos of your bones and cartilages.
Treatment
Osteoarthritis is irreversible and its direct cause is yet to be determined. However, symptoms can be managed if detected in the early stages. Certain medications or supplements (containing hydrolyzed collagen) may be prescribed to help manage symptoms. Your doctor may recommend physical therapy or surgery depending on the gravity of your condition. If you are diagnosed with OA, ask your friends and family for the extra support that you may need.
Preventive measures
Daily exercise is a free and effective way to help prevent weight gain. Avoid overeating and eat healthful meals rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Losing weight can relieve your joints of the daily burden of excessive force. Stretching exercises like tai chi and yoga are said to be effective against stiffness caused by osteoarthritis.
To help relieve the symptoms of osteoarthritis, you may also ask your doctor on which medicines to take. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like Naproxen Sodium (Skelan) can be used to help manage bothersome symptoms of osteoarthritis such as pain and inflammation
What is (Naproxen Sodium (Skelan®)?
Naproxen Sodium (SKELAN) provides fast and long-lasting relief from pain caused by arthritis, gout, and rheumatism. It works at the site of injury to reduce swelling and pain.
• Works in as fast as 30 minutes
• Lasts up to 12 hours
This product contains Naproxen Sodium which belongs to a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (also known as NSAIDs). Like other NSAIDs, Naproxen Sodium works by changing the body’s chemical response to pain, swelling and fever resulting in relief of symptoms of inflammation (e.g., swelling, redness) and relief of pain and/or fever.
Recommended dosage
Like other NSAIDS, the lowest effective dose of naproxen sodium should be used for the shortest possible time. This medicine is given orally (by mouth). Drink a full glass of water with each dose. For guidance, the dosage and frequency are included here:
- Adults: 1 tablet every 8 to 12 hours as needed, or, as directed by a doctor.
- Do not exceed 2 tablets in any 8 to 12-hour period.
- Do not exceed 3 tablets in a 24-hour period.
- Adults over 65 years: 1 tablet every 12 hours, or, as directed by a doctor.
- Do not take more than 1 tablet every 12 hours unless directed by a doctor.
- Children under 12 years old: Consult a doctor before use.
*Naproxen Sodium (Skelan) is available in all leading drugstores nationwide.
General disclaimer
Your doctor will always be in the best position to give the appropriate medical advice for your condition. For suspected undesirable drug reaction, seek medical attention immediately and report to the FDA at www.fda.gov.ph and UNILAB, Inc. at 8-UNILAB-1 or productsafety@unilab.com.ph. Always buy your medicine from your trusted drugstores and retailers.
If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
ASC Ref: U145P092520SS
Sources:
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoarthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351925
- https://www.arthritis.org/about-arthritis/types/osteoarthritis/what-is-osteoarthritis.php
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/kc/osteoarthritis-causes-symptoms-treatments-27871
- https://www.arthritis-health.com/types/osteoarthritis/osteoarthritis-symptoms-and-signs
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-bones-for-lifetime/art-20304594 https://www.rheumatoidarthritis.org/ra/ra-vs-oa/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/262881.php
- https://www.arthritisresearchuk.org/arthritis-information/complementary-and-alternative-medicines/cam-report/complementary-medicines-for-rheumatoid-arthritis/collagen/trials-for-oa.aspx
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