Question

A 51-year-old professional tennis instructor is newly diagnosed with osteoarthritis. What is the nurse's best explanation to the patient when asked what this diagnosis means?

a. Presence of antibodies in the synovial fluid.
b. Dislocation of the patella over the tibia.
c. Degeneration of articular cartilage.
d. Body's autoimmune response.

Answer 1

Osteoarthritis is a joint disease caused by the breakdown of joint cartilage and bone. It primarily affects synovial joints and is associated with aging and wear and tear of the articular cartilage. While there is no cure, treatments can help alleviate the symptoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

Osteoarthritis is a joint disease that primarily affects the synovial joints. It is caused by the breakdown of joint cartilage and bone, resulting in symptoms such as joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. The main cause of osteoarthritis is aging and wear and tear of the articular cartilage, which covers the surfaces of bones at synovial joints. As the cartilage wears down, more pressure is placed on the bones, leading to pain and inflammation. While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, lifestyle changes, medications, and joint replacement surgery can help alleviate the symptoms.