Alternative Names
Hypertrophic osteoarthritis; Osteoarthrosis; Degenerative joint disease; DJD; OA; Arthritis – osteoarthritis
Definition of Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disorder.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Osteoarthritis is caused by ‘wear and tear’ on a joint.
Symptoms
Pain and stiffness in the joints are the most common symptoms. The pain is often worse after exercise and when placing weight or pressure on the joint.
Signs and tests
A physical exam can show:
Treatment
OA cannot be cured. It will also most likely become worse over time. However, your OA symptoms can be controlled.
Expectations (prognosis)
Every person with OA is different. Pain and stiffness may prevent one person from performing simple daily activities, while others are able to maintain an active lifestyle that includes sports and other activities.
Review
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 10/28/2010
