What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, for which there is no cure. It is a common, chronic, progressive musculoskeletal disorder.

In an osteoarthritic joint, the surface layer of cartilage gradually breaks down and wears away. The bones in the joint that are now exposed and rubbing against each other, causing pain, swelling, and loss of motion. Over time, the joint may lose its normal shape. In addition, small deposits of bone, called bone spurs, may grow on the edges of the joint. These can break off and float inside the joint space, causing even more pain and damage.



80% of the population over 65 years old has radiographic evidence of OA.1Patients suffering from OA often face chronic pain that worsens over time. Most commonly affecting middle-aged and older people, OA can range from very mild to very severe. There are certain factors that can increase a person’s risk for developing osteoarthritis.

Causes Of Osteoarthritis

Aging

as a person gets older, the body’s ability to heal damaged or lost cartilage decreases2

Joint injury: 

younger people can also develop OA due to joint injury, for example, athletes who have suffered from a sports-related knee injury3

Heredity:

if there is a family history of OA, the risk for developing the disease increases4

Repeated joint stress:

excess weight or overuse of the joint causes stress or increased wear and tear on the joint2

Muscle weakness:

if the muscles that surround the joint are weak, added stress is placed on the joint5

Joint disorder:

if there is a joint malformation or a genetic defect in the joint cartilage