What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most widespread type of arthritis in the UK and affects the joints, causing inflammation, swelling and pain.

/static/themes-v3/default/images/default/info/maladie/intro.jpg?1516194360

To keep the joints from rubbing against eachother a material called cartilage is protecting the meeting point of the bones. In the case of osteoarthritis, the cartilage becomes too thin, causing changes in the joint.

What happens when you get osteoarthritis?

If the cartilage in the joints starts thinning, the joint will start changing, trying to fix the problem. Unfortunately these changes sometimes worsen the symptoms and causes stiffness and pain. The end of the bone affected can start to grow outwards, into little pikes called osteophytes. Extra liquid can be produced, causing swelling and the ligaments will try to stabilize the joint by contracting and thickening.

In severe cases of osteoarthritis, the cartilage will degenerate, causing the bones to rub against eachother and wearing them down.
In the long run osteoarthritis can cause wear and tear to both cartilage, ligaments and bones.

You can find more information at the Osteoarthritis Forum.

Last updated: 21/05/2017

avatar Carenity Editorial Team

Author: Carenity Editorial Team, Editorial Team

The Carenity Editorial Team is made up of experienced editors and specialists in the healthcare field who aim to provide impartial and high quality information. Our editorial content is proofread, edited and... >> Learn more

Fact sheets

Newsfeed - Osteoarthritis