What Is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) describes a condition which the joints are inflamed due to the wearing out of cartilages in the joints that cushions the bones.
The most common symptoms are joint pain and stiffness. Initially, symptoms may occur only following exercise, but over time may become constant. Other symptoms may include joint swelling, decreased range of motion, and when the back is affected weakness or numbness of the arms and legs. The most commonly involved joints are those near the ends of the fingers, at the base of the thumb, neck, lower back, knee, and hips.
It is the most common form of arthritis (ageing joint disease) which can lead to swelling of the joints, stiffness and serious pain. It also affects women more than men especially after menopause.