Our parents and grandparents always try their best to keep themselves fit and healthy. Be it joining a yoga class or going for long morning walks, they enjoy taking care of their health. Yet, sometimes, you observe them say, “I don’t feel like going on a walk today!” or “I should stop knitting!” No matter how many times you ask what the matter is, they choose to say they are fine, but actually suffer in silence. The reason they may be avoiding participating in physical activities can be the early onset of osteoarthritis – the most common joint disease that affects knee joints, hands, feet, hips and the spine.

Osteoarthritis is a progressive disease and also known as “arthritis of the bone”. It relates to the breaking down of the smooth cartilage in the joints which help it move easily. The cartilage which is also a “shock absorber” reduces friction in the joints. The wearing away of this cartilage leads to an increase in friction in the joints which as a result, causes pain.

In India, this joint disease has a prevalence of 22% to 39% and is more common in women than men. Apart from age, other factors like previous injury, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle may lead to osteoarthritis. The onset of osteoarthritis can be spotted with acute observation at home before visiting a doctor for treatment. Below are some of the early symptoms you must look out for as an indicator of osteoarthritis.

• 1.Pain

  The pain related to osteoarthritis may not be the same for all. Some experience a dull, achy sensation while for others it can be a sharp, stabbing ache. The pain can worsen during movement. At the start, the pain may just be a visitor, but it can turn permanent with progression of the disease.

• 2.Stiffness

  The pain related to osteoarthritis may not be the same for all. Some experience a dull, achy sensation while for others it can be a sharp, stabbing ache. The pain can worsen during movement. At the start, the pain may just be a visitor, but it can turn permanent with progression of the disease.

• 3.Swelling

  The pain related to osteoarthritis may not be the same for all. Some experience a dull, achy sensation while for others it can be a sharp, stabbing ache. The pain can worsen during movement. At the start, the pain may just be a visitor, but it can turn permanent with progression of the disease.

• 4.Decreased range of motion and function

  The pain related to osteoarthritis may not be the same for all. Some experience a dull, achy sensation while for others it can be a sharp, stabbing ache. The pain can worsen during movement. At the start, the pain may just be a visitor, but it can turn permanent with progression of the disease.

• 5.Creaking, Popping and Crackling noises

  The pain related to osteoarthritis may not be the same for all. Some experience a dull, achy sensation while for others it can be a sharp, stabbing ache. The pain can worsen during movement. At the start, the pain may just be a visitor, but it can turn permanent with progression of the disease.

The symptoms of pain one experiences during the early stages of osteoarthritis can be relieved with the topical application of salves like Zandu Ortho Vedic Oil. Made with Ayurvedic ingredients like Mahanarayan Taila, Mahamasha Taila and Vishgrabha Taila, it helps in reducing pain, stiffness and inflammation in just 7 days.