Osteoarthritis

 

 

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. Osteoarthritis breaks down the cartilage in your joints. Cartilage is the slippery tissue that covers the ends of bones in a joint. Healthy cartilage absorbs the shock of movement. When you lose cartilage, your bones rub together. Over time, this rubbing can permanently damage the joint.

 

 

Common symptoms include:

1. Pain

2. Swelling

3. Reduced motion in the joints that most commonly affects the hands, knees, hips, or spine.

 

 

Risk factors for osteoarthritis include:

1. Overweight

2. Getting older

3. Injuring a joint

 

 

No single test can diagnose osteoarthritis. Most doctors use several methods, including medical history, a physical exam, x-rays, or lab tests.

 

 

Treatments include exercise, medicines, and sometimes surgery.