Bones and joints Archive

The joint connecting the thumb and wrist is crucial in everyday activities like opening jars or grasping objects, but if osteoarthritis develops, treatment options are limited and don't always work well. A new study has demonstrated the effectiveness of occupational therapy for arthritis in this joint of the hand.

Aspirin has many proven benefits and some research has linked its use to a lower risk for fractures after falls. Now, a more rigorous study finds a daily dose offers no added protection from serious falls and fractures compared with placebo.

Shoulder impingement occurs when tendons or bursae are compressed, often causing pain when reaching overhead or behind you. It's linked to poor posture, weak rotator cuff muscles, and tight chest muscles. Strengthening, posture correction, and stretching usually relieve symptoms.

"Bone-on-bone" is a common description for advanced osteoarthritis, when the cartilage in a joint wears away completely. Symptoms, including pain, stiffness, and limited motion, can be managed with physical therapy, weight loss, pain medications, injections, and possibly joint replacement.

Total knee replacement can relieve pain and restore function for people with knee osteoarthritis. Innovations, such as robotic-assisted surgery, personalized 3D-printed implants, and enhanced protocols for rehabilitation and pain control, aim to further improve results.

Hours spent sitting can leave a person's hips feeling stiff and sore, often because the hip flexor muscles have tightened and shortened. Understanding how these muscles work and practicing simple stretches regularly can relieve discomfort and improve flexibility.

Low back pain is common. It often results from poor posture, bad ergonomics, unusual movement patterns, and age-related spinal changes. Ignoring pain can lead to muscle weakness and instability. Early care, including physical therapy, helps relieve pain and prevent future problems.

For people with knee osteoarthritis, walking pattern (called gait) matters. Pain can lead to habits like shuffling or shortening steps, increasing joint stress. Gait training, along with strengthening, stretching, and balance, can help normalize walking, improve stability, and reduce knee strain.