Diseases
osteoarthritis
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It 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.
Symptoms
- pain. affected joints might hurt during or after movement.
- stiffness. joint stiffness might be most noticeable upon awakening.
- tenderness. your joint might feel tender when you apply light pressure.
- loss of flexibility
- grating sensation, and swelling.
Causes
- osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in your joints gradually deteriorates. cartilage is a firm, slippery tissue that enables nearly frictionless joint motion.
Risk factors
- older age. the risk of osteoarthritis increases with age.
- sex. women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis, though it isn't clear why.
- obesity, joint injuries.
Diagnosis
- imaging tests eg, (x-rays, mri)
- lab tests eg, (blood tests, joint fluid analysis)
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It 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.
What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?
pain. affected joints might hurt during or after movement., stiffness. joint stiffness might be most noticeable upon awakening., tenderness. your joint might feel tender when you apply light pressure., loss of flexibility, grating sensation, and swelling.
What causes osteoarthritis?
osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in your joints gradually deteriorates. cartilage is a firm, slippery tissue that enables nearly frictionless joint motion.
Which medicines are used for osteoarthritis?
aceclofenac, betamethasone, camphor, celecoxib, chondroitin, chymotrypsin, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, diacerin, diclofenac, diflunisal, etodolac, etoricoxib, fenoprofen, flurbiprofen, ginger, glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, ibuprofen, ketoprofen
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