|
|
Osteoarthritis
Alternate Names : Degenerative Joint Disease, DJD, Hypertrophic Osteoarthritis, OA, Osteoarthrosis
Definition
Osteoarthritis is a chronic disease causing deterioration of the joint cartilage (the softer parts of bones, which cushion their connections to each other) and the formation of new bone (bone spurs) at the margins of the joints.
Pictures & Images
 See all Pictures & Images
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
For most people, the cause of osteoarthritis is unknown, but metabolic, genetic, chemical, and mechanical factors play a role in its development. It is associated with the aging process and is the most common form of arthritis.
It may first appear without symptoms between 30 and 40 years of age and is present in almost everyone by the age of 70. Symptoms generally appear in middle age. Before the age of 55 it occurs equally in both sexes. However, after 55 the incidence is higher in women.
The cartilage of the affected joint is roughened and becomes worn down. As the disease progresses, the cartilage becomes completely worn down and the bone rubs on bone. Bony spurs usually develop around the joint.
Systemic symptoms, sometimes associated with other arthritic conditions, are not associated with osteoarthritis. The joints of the hands and fingers, hips, knees, big toe, and cervical and lumbar spine are commonly affected.
The degeneration of the joint may begin as a result of trauma to the joint, occupational overuse, obesity, or mal-alignment of the joints (for example being bow-legged or knock-kneed).
Today's Top News Stories | • | Falls Are Top Cause of Injury, Death Among Elderly - Jul 19, 2008, 09:00
Not all homes are the same, but common sense measures can reduce the risk, expert says. | • | Heart Blood Vessels Grown in the Lab - Jul 18, 2008, 19:00
Could offer a future alternative to bypass surgery, researchers say. | • | Clinical Trials Update: July 18, 2008 - Jul 18, 2008, 09:24
- Breast Cancer
- Hot Flashes
- Emphysema
| • | Loud Music in Bars Hastens Drinking - Jul 18, 2008, 16:00
French researchers say blasting tunes makes patrons down more alcohol in less time. | • | Breast-Fed Babies Have Fewer GI Infections - Jul 18, 2008, 17:00
But they're more likely to be iron-deficient, study finds. |
|
Jump to another section
• Definition
• Osteoarthritis Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Osteoarthritis Symptoms & Signs
• Osteoarthritis Prevention
• Osteoarthritis Diagnosis & Tests
• Osteoarthritis Treatment
• Osteoarthritis Prognosis
• Osteoarthritis Complications
• Osteoarthritis Support Groups
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Arthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
Tests & Exams
• X-Ray
Surgery & Procedures
• Hip Joint Replacement
• Knee Joint Replacement
• Spinal Fusion
Other Topics
• Arthritis - Resources
• Chronic
• Incidence
• Intentional Weight Loss
• Joint Pain
• Obesity
• Resources
• Stress and Anxiety
• Systemic
• Weight Loss - Unintentional
• Weight Management
Review Date : 6/12/2002
Reviewed By : Kevin B. Freedman, M.D., Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, Loyola University Medical Center, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
|
|
