Osteoarthritis is the most common joint-related disorder. Like other forms of arthritis, the cartilage between the bones wears away in the joints. There is no cure for osteoarthritis and its cause is often unknown. It is believed to be related to aging but can also occur if the disease runs in the family, if a patient is overweight, or due to long-term uses of a joint. Bony spurs or growths typically form around the joint, and the ligaments and muscles can loosen and become weak.
Symptoms
- Deep aching joint pain that gets worse after exercise and is relieved by rest
- Pain that is worse when you start activities after a period of no activity
- Over time, pain is present even when you are at rest
- Grating of the joint with motion
- Increase in pain during humid or moist weather
- Joint swelling
- Limited movement
- Muscle weakness around arthritic joint