Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disease, in which joint cartilage wears down over time, causing pain, stiffness and difficulty moving. It is most common in the knee, hip, finger and spinal joints. Osteoarthritis is very common in people over 65, but it can also occur in younger people after overuse of a joint or trauma.

Treatment is conservative: regular, appropriate exercise, weight management and physiotherapy are the most important ways to slow progression and relieve symptoms. Painkillers and joint corticosteroid injections help through flare-ups. When pain is uncontrolled and function is significantly impaired, an orthopedist assesses the need for joint replacement surgery.