About Osteoarthritis
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a disease that can cause pain and stiffness in the joints (i.e., lower back, hips, knees, etc.). The ends of the bones in normal joints are covered with smooth cartilage, which provides protection to these bones. Joints also contain a fluid called synovial fluid, which acts as a cushion or "shock absorber" and lubricates the joint.
In people with osteoarthritis, the synovial fluid becomes thinner and loses its elasticity and ability to provide a good cushion. For this and other reasons, the cartilage covering the ends of the bones begins to break down and wear away, sometimes enough to expose the bones themselves.
Osteoarthritis may be caused by many factors, including:
 | Excessive wear on the joints
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| Age, although osteoarthritis does not occur in all people as they age
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| Obesity, especially with osteoarthritis of the knees
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| A small deformity of the bones in a joint
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| Joint injuries from sport
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| Work-related activities or accidents |
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
The main symptom of osteoarthritis is pain. You may feel pain during movement and even at rest. Your joints may also be stiff and swollen, and you may even experience a loss of range of movement in the joint. The symptoms of osteoarthritis may interfere with your normal activities, such as walking and dressing, and they may also disrupt your sleep.
Osteoarthritis can affect any joint. It commonly occurs in the knees, hips, and spine. For example, if you have osteoarthritis of the knee, you may feel tenderness in the knee area and pain during movement of the knee. You may also feel a "grating" or "catching" sensation in the joint during movement. The large muscles around your knee will become weaker with time if pain prevents you from moving or exercising the leg.
For more information about osteoarthritis or other joint disorders contact your doctor or other healthcare professional or visit:
Arthritis Foundations
This site is intended for use by Australian and New Zealand residents only.
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Contact Us: |
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Level 1, Building C,
12-24 Talavera Road
North Ryde NSW 2113
P: 612 9978 3900
F: 612 9889 3900
Mailing Address:
PO Box 282
North Ryde B/C NSW 1670
General Email
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