Hand surgeon Khurram Pervaiz, MD answers your questions about osteoarthritis.
My doctor told me I have osteoarthritis. What is that?
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and involves wear and tear of the joint. This form of arthritis is caused by inflammation, breakdown, and the eventual loss of cartilage in the joint – the cartilage wears down over time.
What causes osteoarthritis?
There are many reasons for osteoarthritis of a joint. The most common factors that lead to osteoarthritis are old age, genetics, weight and injury / trauma.
What are some of the symptoms of osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis affecting a joint can cause a variety of symptoms such as pain, stiffness (limited mobility), warmth, and swelling. There may be a grating feeling (or crepitus) with movement of the joint.