What Is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and is often referred to as degenerative joint disease or "wear-and-tear" arthritis. It develops when the cartilage that cushions and protects the ends of bones within a joint gradually breaks down.

As cartilage wears away, the bones may rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and inflammation. The body may also develop bone spurs, and the tissues surrounding the joint can become thickened or damaged. Osteoarthritis commonly affects the hands, knees, hips, and spine.

What Causes Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis develops when the protective cartilage within a joint deteriorates over time. Although it becomes more common with age, several factors can contribute to its development.

Doctors generally recognize two types of osteoarthritis:

• Primary Osteoarthritis: Develops gradually without a specific identifiable injury or underlying condition and is often associated with aging and changes in joint tissues.
• Secondary Osteoarthritis: Develops as a result of an underlying factor, such as a previous joint injury, fracture, abnormal joint alignment, or another condition affecting the joint.

Factors that may increase the risk of osteoarthritis include:

• Increasing age
• Previous joint injuries or fractures
• Excess body weight
• Repetitive stress or overuse of a joint
• Abnormal joint alignment
• Family history of osteoarthritis

What Are the Symptoms of Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis symptoms vary depending on the joints affected and the severity of the condition. Some people experience few or no symptoms, while others develop pain and stiffness that interfere with daily activities.

Common symptoms include:

• Joint pain that worsens with activity
• Stiffness, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity
• Swelling or tenderness around the affected joint
• Reduced range of motion
• Grinding, cracking, or crunching sensations during movement
• Pain or stiffness in the lower back when the spinal joints are affected

As osteoarthritis progresses, symptoms may make walking, bending, climbing stairs, and other everyday activities more difficult.

How Is Osteoarthritis Diagnosed?

Your doctor will review your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical examination to evaluate the affected joints. This may include checking for swelling, tenderness, stiffness, and changes in joint movement.

Diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, may be used to identify joint space narrowing, bone spurs, or other changes associated with osteoarthritis. In certain cases, your doctor may recommend an MRI or CT scan for a more detailed evaluation. Blood tests may also be used to rule out other conditions that cause joint pain.