Osteoarthritis is a degenerative complaint that can affect any joint and gets slowly worse over time. Sometimes this degeneration is caused by general wear and tear in the joint.
Osteoarthritis in younger people can often be the result of a previous injury.
In both cases the smooth cartilage that covers the ends of bones in the joint wears thin and becomes rough. This cartilage, when functioning normally, is essential in providing the smooth surfaces that move against each other as the joint moves.
As the cartilage breaks down it can become pitted and brittle. Over time the bony outgrowths form at the edges of the joint making it appear knobbly. Structures in the joint thicken causing the space inside the joint to narrow. All of this causes stiffening of the joint and can cause pain and inflammation.
Osteoarthritis is nearly always diagnosed when the affected joint becomes painful or stiff to move. However, the processes that cause osteoarthritis may have been ongoing long before the symptoms are noticed.
We grab it, clutch it, hold it! This is our immediate and automatic response.
Why do we do this?
Theories range from affecting the pain receptors, to providing a tourniquet-like effect for nerves and blood vessels, to isolating the damaged structures and preventing further movement. Whatever the reason is, we all do it.
How can an Active650 support help?
By holding the area for you it provides support and pain relief, allowing you to get back to normal activities.