Among the different types of arthritis conditions, osteoarthritis is the most common, and it occurs more frequently in older people. Osteoarthritis (also known as degenerative arthritis) is a type of arthritis that is caused by the breakdown and eventual loss of the cartilage of one or more joints which leaves the bones to rub against each other. (Cartilage is a hard but slippery tissue between joints, which is more of a cushion for the bones which form the joints). This is mainly due to wear and tear of the joints which over time weakens the bones and makes them more likely to break.

Symptoms in Osteoarthritis (OA) can be stiffness, tenderness, inflammation and mild pain in the joints that comes and goes or severe joint pain, creaking or locking of joints. OA is most likely in the hands, neck, lower back, or the large weight-bearing joints of the body, such as knees and hips, but it can affect any joint in the body. If symptoms are too severe it may lead to loss of mobility in the patient and disability. Most cases of osteoarthritis which have no known cause and are mostly related to aging are referred to as primary osteoarthritis. When osteoarthritis is caused by another disease or condition (such as obesity, vitamin deficiencies, repeated trauma or surgery to the joint structures, abnormal joints at birth, diabetes, and other hormone disorders) it is referred to as secondary osteoarthritis.
 
Growing older is what most often puts a person at risk for OA. It sometimes affects several members of the same family, which indicates that there is a genetic factor to this condition. However the cause depends on which part of the body is involved. Likewise, OA in the hands or hips may run in families and OA in the knees can be linked with being overweight. Injuries or over-use may cause OA in joints such as knees, hips, or hands.

As OA progresses, the affected joints appear larger, are stiff and painful, and gradually worsens with time. Diagnosis is normally done through x-rays and osteoarthritis treatments can relieve pain and help remain active. Typical treatment consists of medication or other intervention that can reduce the pain of OA and thereby improve the function of the joint. Implantations, injections of the joints and surgery are possible treatments and sometimes required for the worst conditions.

No matter how severe, things that can be done without medication such as weight control, appropriate rest and exercise (ice packs on the joints after exercise helps ease the pain), and the use of mechanical support devices are usually beneficial. Also it is equally important to have a proper diet. Avoiding fatty and inflammatory foods and preferring more green leafy vegetables proves helpful. Foods high in vitamin C and D are important and a regular intake of calcium supplements is a necessity. Also elimination of excessive sugar and salt, coffee and fats help overcome the problem. And smoking should be completely avoided as it only makes osteoporosis worse!

Taking advice from health care providers such as physical therapists and medical doctors are useful for OA patients. However, taking steps to actively manage osteoarthritis may help gain control over osteoarthritis pain and improve the quality of life.

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