Osteoarthritis (OA) is sometimes called degenerative joint disease or wear-and-tear arthritis. It's the most common type of arthritis. Cartilage covers the ends of bones and acts as a cushion. In OA, the cartilage wears away. If enough cartilage wears away, bone rubs against bone. The joint changes in OA cause pain, stiffness, and trouble moving. OA may occur in any joint. But those most commonly affected are the spine, neck, hips, knees, fingers, and toes.
Neck
Joints and cartilage between small bones in the neck may wear away. Pain may travel to the shoulder or the base of the skull or down the arms.
Lumbar spine
Bony spurs may form on the joints between the vertebrae (spinal bones), or disks (cushions of cartilage between vertebrae) may wear down. Pain may affect the lower back and travel down the leg (sciatic pain).
Hip
Cartilage damage can occur in the large “ball and socket” joint that connects the pelvis and thighbone (femur). Pain may travel to the groin, buttocks, or knee.
Knee
The cartilage in the knee joint may wear down. Weakness or instability in the knee joint may make walking or climbing stairs difficult.
Fingers
Finger joints may become enlarged and knobby. Grasping objects may be hard, especially if the joint at the base of the thumb is affected.
Toes
Toes may be affected. Arthritis may cause a bunion, a bump at the base of the big toe. Standing or walking may be painful. Pain may also occur if the cartilage in the toe joint wears down. This is most common in the big toe.
Related Articles
Osteoarthritis: Coping with Pain
There are many ways to control your pain. You’re making a good start by learning about osteoarthritis and its treatments. Knowing more about this condition helps you work with your healthcare provider to find answers to problems. Keeping a positive outlook can help you manage pain from day to day. And making time each day to relax and enjoy yourself may help you control osteoarthritis pain, instead of letting it control you.
Ankylosing Spondylitis in Adults
Young and old people can develop AS. But it’s more common in people ages 17 to 35. Men are more likely than women to have AS. You are also more likely to have it if someone else in your family had it.
The Best Ways to Treat, Prevent Tendonitis
Tendonitis is your body's way of telling you, "Enough! You're putting too much stress on this muscle and joint."
Understanding Bursitis
Bursitis is inflammation of the fluid-filled sac (bursa) that cushions and reduces friction between tissues of the body. Read on to learn details about this condition.
