Osmosis video - Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease usually caused by age-related breakdown of joint cartilage and underlying bone. This leads to stiffness and pain in weight-bearing joints that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Other symptoms of osteoarthritis include a grinding sensation when the joint is moved, and difficulty moving the affected joint. Risk factors for developing osteoarthritis include advancing age, obesity, and joint injury. Treatment involves losing weight, moderate exercise, physical therapy, and drugs to reduce pain and inflammation.