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Osteoarthritis (OA), also known as degenerative arthritis or degenerative joint disease, is a group of mechanical abnormalities involving degradation of joints, including articular cartilage and subchondral bone. Symptoms may include joint pain, tenderness, stiffness, locking, and sometimes an effusion. A variety of causes—hereditary, developmental, metabolic, and mechanical—may initiate processes leading to loss of cartilage. When bone surfaces become less well protected by cartilage, bone may be exposed and damaged. As a result of decreased movement secondary to pain, regional muscles may atrophy, and ligaments may become more lax.

Symptoms and Signs

Osteoarthritis can affect any joint but occurs most often in knees, hips, lower back, and neck, small joints of the fingers, and the bases of the thumb and big toe. In many cases, it develops gradually over time. Several symptoms are indicative of OA:

• Pain in a joint during or after use
• Stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity
• Swelling or tenderness in one or more joints
• A crunching feeling or the sound of bone rubbing on bone

Causes

The exact causes of OA are not fully understood, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of mechanical, genetic, metabolic, and biochemical factors. Factors that might increase the risk of OA include age, joint injury or stress, obesity, and genetics.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of osteoarthritis involves a combination of clinical examination and, if necessary, diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or MRI. There is no blood test for the diagnosis of OA.

Treatment

While there is no cure for OA, treatments can help to reduce symptoms. Lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, medications, and in some cases, surgery, can help reduce pain and maintain joint function. Treatments may include:

• Exercise and weight control
• Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs
• Physical therapy
• Joint injections
• Surgical options, such as joint replacement

Prevention

Preventive measures for OA include maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and avoiding joint injury. Early diagnosis and treatment can slow the progression of the disease.

Epidemiology

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It is more common in the elderly and is a leading cause of disability among older adults.

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