Osteoarthritis is a common joint condition involving cartilage, bone, ligaments, and other joint tissues. It is sometimes called degenerative arthritis, but it is more than simple wear and tear.

Common symptoms

Symptoms can include joint pain, stiffness after rest, reduced motion, swelling, clicking, or pain that worsens with activity.

Where it happens

Osteoarthritis commonly affects knees, hips, hands, spine, and feet. Risk can rise with age, previous injury, repetitive stress, body weight, and genetics.

Osteoarthritis is different from rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune inflammatory disease.