Osteoarthritis; what now?
Are you suffering from osteoarthritis and experiencing pain and discomfort? A brace, splint, or bandage for your wrist, hand, or thumb provides rest, stability, and support for conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatism (rheumatoid arthritis), or a broken wrist. But what exactly is osteoarthritis? How common is osteoarthritis? What can I do about osteoarthritis? Is a brace right for me? Which brace is the best? Where can I find such an ‘osteoarthritis’ brace? Will my health insurance cover a brace? These are all questions addressed in this blog…
What is ‘osteoarthritis’?
Osteoarthritis (osteoarthritis) is a rheumatic disorder of the musculoskeletal system. This condition can occur on its own or as a result of joint inflammation or weak joint ligaments. Many people associate the diagnosis of osteoarthritis with worn-out joints or bones. ‘I have a worn-out knee’ or ‘my wrist is worn-out’ are common complaints within healthcare. This is not entirely accurate. The joint is not worn out; there has been a change in the joint.
A bit of theory: a joint is a connection between two bone parts. Cartilage is present on the joint surface of the bone. This cartilage is a smooth tissue that facilitates ‘smooth’ movement of a joint. In osteoarthritis, this cartilage becomes deformed; it becomes thinner and softer. This results in the joints moving less easily, which inherently leads to painful and stiff joints.
How common is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is the most common rheumatic disorder of the musculoskeletal system. In 2015, 1.2 million people were diagnosed with ‘osteoarthritis’ by their general practitioner. The condition is most common in:
– People over 45 years of age,
– Women,
– People with overweight (obesity),
– People who heavily strain their bodies, and
– People with a family history of osteoarthritis.
I have osteoarthritis; what now?
The course of osteoarthritis varies from person to person and from joint to joint. There may be many complaints, but it is also possible to experience few complaints. What helps to deal better with osteoarthritis is by seeking information and advice from a specialist. They provide advice regarding medication (doctor), exercise therapy (physiotherapist), and medical & orthopedic aids (ProBrace).
A brace for osteoarthritis
To support your joint, you can use a brace. Do you have osteoarthritis in your wrist? Then you choose a wrist brace. Do you have osteoarthritis in your thumb? Then you choose a thumb brace. Etc. However, are you poorly mobile? Do you feel insecure when walking? Then crutches, a rollator, or a walking stick can also offer a solution.
To purchase crutches, a rollator, a walking stick, or a wrist brace, thumb brace, or knee brace, it is wise to first seek information and advice from a specialist. Let yourself be informed and advised entirely free of charge by a specialist from ProBrace.
Where can I find such a brace?
Firstly, you can seek information and advice from a specialist. This can be your (family) doctor, paramedical specialist (physio, occupational therapist, etc.), or a specialist from ProBrace. They are qualified, experienced, and knowledgeable about osteoarthritis and the right treatment for people with osteoarthritis. If you specifically want to know about medical & orthopedic aids (braces, bandages, splints, crutches, walking sticks, rollators, etc.), then we recommend contacting one of our specialists. You can do this by sending an email to info@probrace.com or calling +31 (0)85 4011 911.
Brace reimbursements
For information regarding reimbursements for braces, bandages, and other
medical & orthopedic aids, I refer you to the reimbursements page of ProBrace.
*Sources:
(thuisarts.nl, 2017)
(volksgezondheidenzorg.info, 2017)
(reumafonds, 2017)
