Osteoarthritis commonly affects the hands, feet, spine & large weight-bearing joints, such as the hips & knees. Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that is caused by the breakdown and eventual loss of the cartilage of one or more joints.
Musculoskeletal (bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments)
The musculoskeletal system provides form, support, stability and movement to the body and is made up of the bones, muscles, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, joints and connective tissue that supports and binds tissues and organs together.
Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that is caused by the breakdown and eventual loss of the cartilage of one or more joints. Cartilage is a protein substance that serves as a "cushion" between the bones of the joints.
Arthritis means inflammation of the joints. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. Degenerative wear & tear changes occur over years of use. Damage to the cartilage results in the release of enzymes that destroy the collagen matrix. This results in pain, swelling, stiffness & restricted mobility.