Osteoarthritis

What is it?

Osteoarthritis — also known as degenerative joint disease or degenerative arthritis — is the most common form of arthritis. It occurs when joint cartilage is damaged due to age or trauma.

Symptoms

  • Joint pain and stiffness
  • Bony enlargement of certain joints
     

Risk factors

  • Aging
  • Injury to joint
  • Obesity
     

Diagnosing osteoarthritis

  • Complete medical history and physical exam
  • Imaging (X-ray or MRI)
  • Lab testing to exclude other forms of arthritis
     

Treating osteoarthritis

  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
  • Analgesics such as acetaminophen
     

Physical therapy

  • Weight loss
  • Joint injections or joint replacement surgery in severe cases
     

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