• Studies show that there is an increase in the number of osteoarthritis cases worldwide

“I’m sorry I had to postpone this trip, which I am still eagerly awaiting,” Francis said in a speech Sunday in front of thousands of people in St. Peter’s Square.

“I beg your pardon for this. We can pray together that I will reach out to you as soon as possible with God’s help and medical treatment. We hope so,” he added.

Also known as osteoarthritis, osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease according to the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology (SBR).

This is a characteristic feature Atrophy of the cartilage and changes in the bones, Among them, osteophytes known as “parrot beaks”.

Rheumatoid arthritis – a group of more than 200 diseases affecting the joints, muscles, ligaments and tendons – is the most common form of osteoarthritis, representing 30% to 40% of consultations at rheumatology clinics.

“The importance of this can be seen in the social security data in Brazil, which accounts for 7.5% of all job losses; it is the second most common cause of first aid, 7.5% of all cases; “, SBR points out.

Syrian Benevolent Association – Hcor explains that aging is the main cause.

It is common for patients to have no family history of this condition, but after the age of 50, due to natural wear and tear, they develop osteoarthritis. In addition, there are other possible causes:

• Activities that overload one or more joints;
• Regular sports such as soccer and tennis;
• Lack of muscle strength, especially in the legs;
• Additional activities that require repetitive movements such as kneeling and standing;
• Impact such as fall, sprain or concussion;
• Obesity;
• Family history.

According to Albert Einstein, Hospital Israel, there is no cure for osteoarthritis. However, resources are available to slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life.

• Traditional treatment: Combines medications (analgesics and anti-inflammatory) and physical therapy.

“In the early stages, arthroscopy can also be an ally. With the help of a micro-camera and appropriate equipment, this minimally invasive surgical procedure allows the treatment of a series of joints, such as the menstrual cycle, and the removal of fragments from it. The cartilaginous tissue in the osteoarthritis process,” the hospital explains.

• New treatments: There is also a prescription for herbal medicines that have anti-inflammatory action. According to Einstein, products of plant origin have little effect on the stomach and kidneys.

In addition, according to Einstein, implantation of cartilage cells isolated from the patient and growing them in the laboratory are evolving. For the time being these are procedures in the experimental-research phase.