What is Osteoarthritis?

About Osteoarthritis:

• It is a degenerative joint disease that can affect the many tissues of the joint. 
• It is the most common type of arthritis. Arthritis refers to biomechanical changes within a joint. 
• Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time.
• Although osteoarthritis can damage any joint, the disorder most commonly affects joints in your hands, knees, hips and spine.
• It is more likely to develop as people age. But it can affect much younger people, too, especially those who have had a prior joint injury.
• Symptoms:
  • Symptoms often develop slowly and worsen over time.
  • It includes Pain, Stiffness, Tenderness, Loss of flexibility, Grating sensation, Bone spurs and Swelling.
• Treatment:
  • There is no cure for Osteoarthritis, but medication, assistive devices and other therapies that don’t involve drugs can help to ease the pain. 
  • As a last resort, a damaged joint may be surgically fused or replaced with one made of a combination of metal, plastic and/or ceramic.

 

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Q1) What is cartilage?

Cartilage is a strong, flexible connective tissue that protects your joints and bones. It acts as a shock absorber throughout your body.

Source: New injectable cell therapy to treat osteoarthritis developed