What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent form of arthritis, primarily affecting the joints. Contrary to a common misconception, it is not typically seen in children; instead, it predominantly affects adults, particularly those over 50 years of age.

A degenerative joint disease

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease, often associated with the natural ageing process. Much like wrinkles and greying hair, the joints undergo changes over time. The cartilage in the joints begins to crack, wear down and eventually erode, causing the bones to rub against each other — this is what we call osteoarthritis.

What causes osteoarthritis?

Although it is largely age-related, osteoarthritis can also appear in younger people in certain situations:

• A genetic predisposition or strong family history of the disease
• Injuries from sports or accidents, which can accelerate osteoarthritis in the affected joint
• Being overweight or smoking, both of which can increase its severity and likelihood

Which joints are affected?

Osteoarthritis can affect many joints but is most common in the fingers, knees, hips and lower back. Early signs in the hands and feet may include:

• The formation of small nodules
• Changes in the shape of the fingers
• Changes in the appearance of the big toe

Unlike some other forms of arthritis, osteoarthritis is not always visibly swollen, but it causes noticeable symptoms such as pain, stiffness and a grinding sensation, especially after periods of inactivity.

How symptoms progress

As the disease advances, pain becomes more persistent and can occur even at rest, while joint stiffness becomes more pronounced. Some patients feel that their joints are unstable, as if they might "give way."

The good news is that osteoarthritis can be managed effectively with the right approach. Read our guides on managing osteoarthritis in the hands and feet and osteoarthritis in the back and knee, or see our overview of osteoarthritis treatment in Faisalabad.