What cause osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease is the most common form of arthritis. It occurs most often in older people. This disease affects the tissue covering the ends of bones in a joint (cartilage). Osteoarthritis is characterised by damaged articular cartilage, cartilage lining the shoulder, elbow, wrist, thumb or finger joint. Advanced age is one of the most common reasons for osteoarthritis. You may also develop osteoarthritis if you had a joint injury or fracture in the past.

The characteristic symptoms and diagnostic test helps in diagnosing the condition. You may experience severe joint pain, morning stiffness and limited range of motion. Based on the symptoms physical examination, X-rays, scans, and also some blood tests may be ordered.