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Osteoarthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a type of arthritis characterized by the wearing away of natural cushioning between joints, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, reduced mobility, and sometimes bone spurs. Unlike other forms of arthritis, osteoarthritis is not an autoimmune disease but is related to the natural aging process of the body.
There are two main types of osteoarthritis: primary and secondary. Primary osteoarthritis occurs without an underlying cause or genetic predisposition, while secondary osteoarthritis is caused by factors such as disease or injury to the joint. Common joints affected by osteoarthritis include the knees, hips, hands, feet, ankles, back, and neck. Knee osteoarthritis is the most widespread form of the disease, affecting a significant portion of the population over 45 years old.
Women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis than men, with about 60% of patients being female. The risk of knee osteoarthritis is 40% higher in women than in men, particularly after the age of 45. Genetic factors play a role in the development of osteoarthritis, with certain ethnicities being more susceptible to the disease. Osteoarthritis can lead to limited mobility and disability in elderly patients.
While there is no cure for osteoarthritis
