Understanding the Osteo in Osteoarthritis

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There are about a hundred different types of arthritis, but the most common is osteoarthritis. The Arthritis Foundation estimates that 27 million Americans have the disease, and nearly everyone will have it to some degree by age 70.

Osteo refers to bones, and our bones come together at joints, which allow us to move and bend. In healthy joints, a layer of cartilage covers the ends of the bones. That cartilage – along with lubricating fluid -- protects our joints by absorbing shock and allowing them to move freely. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage wears down and eventually wears away, causing the bones to rub together. 

This chronic disease is characterized by pain, inflammation, swelling and bony growths. It most often attacks joints in your knees, hips, back and hands. These are the joints we depend on to carry our weight and perform repetitive activities, so they wear down after decades of use.

CAUSES

Whether and when you develop osteoarthritis – and how severe it is – depends on many factors. Some you have no control over – your age, gender and genetics.  Others you can control – such as your weight, posture, and overuse of your joints.

(*See prevention page for tips on taking care of your joints.)

SYMPTOMS

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease and it develops gradually over many years of wear and tear on your joints.

When the cartilage on the end of a bone wears down and disappears, that joint won’t move as easily. Bits of bone or cartilage may break off and float around. The bones might also develop cysts or spurs.

When this happens, you will likely experience pain and stiffness, especially when you wake up in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Other common symptoms include swelling and inflammation. Osteoarthritis can also lead to a loss of movement or restricted range of motion in the affected joints. You might even feel or hear the bones rubbing or crunching.

These symptoms are likely to become worse over time.

DIAGNOSIS

Since there are many forms of arthritis, you should see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and to plan a course of action. The second most common type of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis, which is not a function of age and overuse. With rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks your joint tissue and causes you to feel sick, along with the joint pain and inflammation.

TREATMENT

There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but your doctor can help you manage the pain and adjust your activities to slow down the wear and tear on your joints. Some common treatments are weight loss, exercise and medication. If you are in extreme pain or cannot accomplish daily tasks, you may also consider joint replacement surgery.