Osteoarthritis is also known as “abrasion” arthritis. This occurs when the cartilage in the joint is damaged or worn out, causing stiffness, pain, and loss of mobility of the affected joint.

Osteoarthritis primarily affects cartilage, a smooth tissue that covers the ends of the bone in the joint. Healthy cartilage allows bones to slide across each other and reduce the impact of exercise and pressure. When the cartilage of an osteoarthritis person ruptures and wears, causing the bones under the cartilage to rub against each other, this friction causes pain, swelling, and reduced range of joint activity. After a long time, the joints may be deformed and the edges of the joints may even grow spurs. Small pieces of broken bones and cartilage floating in the joint cavity may cause more pain and damage.

The affected joints become stiff, painful, and difficult to move. Osteoarthritis may cause symptoms in only one joint , but may also affect multiple joints. The affected joints will enlarge or protrude slightly, affecting the mobility and be slightly swollen. Osteoarthritis is found most common in the hip, knee, lumbar and hand.

– Increased age
– Joint damage
– Abnormal joint structure
– Articular cartilage genetic defects
– Wearing of joints due to work or exercise