Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is often called a degenerative joint disease which makes many people uncomfortable. It should be thought of more as a condition rather than as a disease as it occurs in the normal population as they age. Osteoarthritis is caused by the breakdown of cartilage, causing pain and joint inflammation. Most commonly affecting those who are middle-aged or older, it can range from very mild to severe. It generally affects the hands and the weight bearing joints such as the knees, hips, feet and the back.

Treatment can involve an exercise program to keep the joints flexible and to improve muscle strength, heat and cold therapy, education regarding joint protection and a variety of other treatments including acupuncture and orthotics.

For more information, please contact The Arthritis Society.