Osteoarthritis Explained

Osteoarthritis Explained

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of the more than one hundred conditions that are considered arthritis and other rheumatic conditions. In 1998, these conditions affected 43 million Americans, and they are among the most common chronic diseases. Osteoarthritis is a disease of the joints. Unlike many other forms of arthritis that are systemic illnesses, such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus, osteoarthritis does not affect other organs of the body. Osteoarthritis is one of the most frequent causes of physical disability among adults. More than 20 million people in the United States have the disease.

Osteoarthritis is a chronic disease of the joint cartilage and bone. It can affect any joint and results from the gradual wearing away of the cushioning (cartilage) between the bone joints that eventually results in bone rubbing against bone. Osteoarthritis is also referred to as degenerative joint disease. Osteoarthritis is not just limited to the hip, but can also appear in the knees, hands and other weight-bearing joints. Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that is caused by breakdown of cartilage, with the eventual loss of the cartilage of the joints. Cartilage is a protein substance that serves as a “cushion” between the bones of the joints.  You can find more information and Osteoarthritis Explained throughout our blog…