Condition Overview
Understand key symptoms, causes, diagnosis options, and treatment pathways for Osteoarthritis. This overview is intended for patient awareness and should be followed by specialist consultation.
MusculoskeletalPrevalence Available
Musculoskeletal
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in joints gradually wears down. Although osteoarthritis can damage any joint, the disorder most commonly affects joints in the hands, knees, hips, and spine.
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Symptoms
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Causes
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Treatments
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Prevention
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Symptoms
- Pain during or after movement
- Joint stiffness most notable upon waking or after inactivity
- Tenderness when pressing the joint
- Loss of flexibility
- Grating sensation
- Bone spurs
- Swelling
Causes
- Cartilage breakdown over time
- Age
- Obesity
- Joint injuries
- Repetitive stress movements
- Genetics
- Bone deformities
- Metabolic diseases
Diagnosis
- Physical examination
- X-rays
- MRI
- Blood tests (to rule out other conditions)
- Joint fluid analysis
Treatment
- Acetaminophen
- NSAIDs
- Duloxetine
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Cortisone injections
- Lubrication injections (hyaluronic acid)
- Realigning bones (osteotomy)
- Joint replacement
Risk Factors
- Older age
- Female sex
- Obesity
- Joint injuries
- Repeated stress on joints
- Genetics
- Bone deformities
Prevention
- Maintain healthy weight
- Exercise regularly
- Control blood sugar
- Prevent injury
Prevalence
Affects over 32.5 million U.S. adults. It is the most common chronic joint condition.
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Verified medical information source from NIAMS.
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