More than 30 million adults are impacted by osteoarthritis, one of the most common forms of arthritis and disability. Osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease that causes gradual deterioration of cartilage within the joint, is the most common cause of joint pain. It happens with normal wear and tear over time. If you suffer from joint pain, you may be one of millions with osteoarthritis. Other types of degenerative joint disease that may cause pain include avascular necrosis (loss of bone due to insufficient blood flow), post-traumatic arthritis (brought on by injury), and rheumatoid arthritis (a chronic inflammatory condition).
Arthritic Degeneration
Cartilage Breakdown
Arthritic Deterioration
Signs of Osteoarthritis
If you are experiencing these symptoms, it may be osteoarthritis:
- Joint pain and stiffness in joints are the most common symptoms
- Joint tenderness and swelling1,2
- Stiffness, especially in the morning1,2
- Loss of range of motion3
- Unusual grating sensations, crunching or creaking sounds2
Common Risk Factors for Osteoarthritis
- Age: Risk increases as you age4
- Gender: Women are more susceptible3, 4
- Obesity: Extra weight increases your risk of developing osteoarthritis3
- Joint injuries: From sports or accidents3
- Repetitive use of joints: Associated with an increased risk of osteoarthritis4
References:
1 Helmick CG, Felson DT, Lawrence RC, et al; National Arthritis Data Workgroup. Estimates of the prevalence of arthritis and other rheumatic conditions in the United States: Part 1. Arthritis Rheum. 2008;58(1):15–25.
2 Lane NE. Osteoarthritis of the Hip. N Engl J Med. 2007;357:1413–1421.
3 Cooper C, Inskip H, Croft P, et al. Individual risk factors for hip osteoarthritis: obesity, hip injury, and physical activity. Am J Epidemiol. 1998;147:516–522.
4 Ethgen O, Bruyère O, Richy F, Dardennes C, Reginster J-Y. Health-related quality of life in total hip and total knee arthroplasty: a qualitative and systematic review of the literature. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2004;86(5):963–974.
