What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that can affect the many tissues of the joint. Millions of people worldwide suffer from this condition. It occurs when the protective cartilage that covers the ends of the bones wears down over time. Osteoarthritis can degrade cartilage, change bone shape, and cause inflammation, resulting in pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility. Osteoarthritis can affect any of the joints, but most commonly develops in the hands, knees, hips, neck (cervical spine), and Lower back (lumbar spine).

Type of Osteoarthritis?

A healthcare provider might classify osteoarthritis as one of two types:
Primary osteoarthritis is the most common form of osteoarthritis that develops in your joints over time. It is usually caused by normal wear and tear of your joints throughout your life. Secondary osteoarthritis happens when something directly damages one of your joints enough to cause osteoarthritis. Injuries and traumas are common causes of secondary osteoarthritis.

Secondary osteoarthritis happens when something directly damages one of your joints enough to cause osteoarthritis. Injuries and traumas are common causes of secondary osteoarthritis.

What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis symptoms often develop slowly and worsen over time. Signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis include:

  • Pain
  • Stiffness
  • Tenderness
  • Loss of flexibility
  • Grating sensation
  • Bone spurs
  • Swelling

What risk factors for developing osteoarthritis?

  • Age
  • Obesity
  • Joint injury
  • Genetics or heredity
  • Muscle weakness
  • Bone deformities
  • Certain metabolic diseases

How is osteoarthritis diagnosed?

There is no specific test for osteoarthritis. To find out if you have osteoarthritis, your provider may use these tests to make the diagnosis:

  • Joint aspiration
  • X-ray
  • MRI

How is osteoarthritis treated?

The most common treatments for osteoarthritis include:

  • Physical therapy, exercise, and weight loss
  • Heat and cold therapies
  • Anti-inflammatory drugs such as Celecoxib  
  • Intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid
  • Analgesics such as Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Ibuprofen and Naproxen
  • Intra-articular injection of steroids
  • Surgery