Otherwise known as degenerative joint disease, Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. It commonly occurs in the weight bearing joints of the hips, knees and spine. It may also occur in the fingers, thumb, neck and large toe.
Osteoarthritis tends to affect women more often than men. Most people sixty years or older have osteoarthritis to a varying degree. However, it has been diagnosed in individuals in their twenties and thirties.
Symptoms often develop gradually and include:
- Joint aching and soreness.
- Pain after overuse or after long periods of inactivity.
- Bony enlargements in the middle and end joints of the fingers - which may or may not be painful.
- Joint swelling and fluid accumulation.
An individual’s chances of developing osteoarthritis are based on several factors including:
Heredity - People born with joint abnormalities are more likely to develop osteoarthritis.
Obesity - Obesity increases the risk for osteoarthritis of the knee and hip.
Injury - Injuries can be linked to the development of osteoarthritis. Athletes who have knee related injuries may be at higher risk of developing osteoarthritis of the knee.
Joint Overuse - Overuse of certain joints increases the risk of developing osteoarthritis. Individuals whose jobs require a repetitious bending motion are at increased risk for developing osteoarthritis of the knee.
If you are suffering with osteoarthritis, please visit your doctor to see what treatment options are available for you.
