What Is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, specially among older people. Sometimes called degenerative joint disease or osteoarthrosis.

Its chief effect is on cartilage . At the ends of the bones in your joints is a slippery tissue - that’s cartilage.. In addition to absorbing energy from the shock of physical movement, healthy cartilage allows bones to glide over each other.

When osteoarthritis is present the top layer of cartilage breaks down and starts to wear away.. This allows bones under the cartilage to rub together, causing pain, swelling, and loss of motion of the joint. Over a period of time, joints can lose their normal shape.. Also, bone spurs–small growths called osteophytes–may grow on the edges of the joint.

Bits of bone or cartilage can break off and float inside the joint space. This causes more pain and damage. You can read more about osteoarthritis signs and symptoms at www.1st-for-health.com, as well as other health issues.

Anyone suffering with osteoarthritis will already know that joint pain and limited mobility is part of the condition.. Unlike some other forms of arthrits, osteoarthritis affects only joints and not internal organs. For example, rheumatoid arthritis–the second most common form of arthritis–affects other parts of the body besides the joints. It begins at a younger age than osteoarthritis, and it can causes swelling and redness in joints. It’s also been known to make people feel tire, sick and in some cases even feverish..

As with anything medical related, you should consult your own doctor before doing anything health related, or making any changes. This information does not diagnose or treat any illness or condition. It is not a substitute for qualified medical advice.