Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease in which joint cartilage deteriorates, causing joint pain and stiffness. Cartilage acts as a cushion between bones; when it erodes, bone rubs together and bony growths (bone spurs) can form. Osteoarthritis predominantly affects weight-bearing joints. Men and women are equally affected by osteoarthritis, which is the most common joint disorder.
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and occurs equally among men and women, typically after age 65. Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease (DJD), is a chronic disorder in which joint cartilage and surrounding tissues deteriorate. As a result, people with osteoarthritis experience joint pain, stiffness, and loss of function. In addition, bony growths (bone spurs) can develop from bones rubbing together due to the loss of cartilage. Osteoarthritis most often causes symptoms in weight-bearing joints, but it can also be present in the joints or the hands and arms.
Osteoarthritis is believed to result from changes in cartilage that prohibit joints from moving smoothly. Obesity and repetitive stress on joints may also contribute to the development of osteoarthritis.
Symptoms of osteoarthritis usually develop gradually in a few joints. However, some people with osteoarthritis experience a more rapid progression. Joint pain, which often worsens with weight-bearing activity (such as standing), is an early symptom of osteoarthritis and most commonly affects the hips and knees. The pain from osteoarthritis usually worsens over the course of the day with continued activity. This contrasts with the joint pain from rheumatoid arthritis, which is worse in the morning and typically improves thereafter. As osteoarthritis progresses, joint pain, limited range of motion and joint stiffness increase; joints can become enlarged and sometimes deformed from the abnormal bone growth. Supporting ligaments may stretch and weaken joints. Back pain is also common if osteoarthritis affects the joints of the spine. Many people with osteoarthritis develop some degree of disability.
If you are affected by osteoarthritis, information in this Condition Guide can help you better understand the definition, causes, and symptoms of osteoarthritis.
