Conditions

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a chronic degenerative disorder of the joints which is caused by inflammation and degradation of the cartilage and subchondral bone. Osteoarthritis affects 30% of the population over age 45, and up to 70% of those over age 65. Cartilage acts as a cushion for the joints, so when this cushion begins to degrade, there is no longer any support for the subchondral bone. As a result, individuals with osteoarthrtitis experience pain and discomfort upon weight-bearing (eg. standing, walking). Symptoms of osteoarthritis include joint pain, swelling, tenderness, stiffness, inflammation, creaking, and locking of joints. It commonly affects the hip and knee joints, but can also involve the shoulder joint, spine, and the hands.