What is Arthritis ? Arthritis or Osteoarthritis, is also called degenerative joint disease or “wear-and-tear” of the joints. Almost everyone is affected by it to some extent as they grow older. It most frequently occurs in Osteoarthritis, mainly knees, hips, and ankles. This form of arthritis slowly and gradually breaks down the cartilage that covers the ends of each bone in a joint. Normally, the cartilage acts as a shock absorber, providing a smooth surface between the bones. But with osteoarthritis, the smooth surface becomes rough and pitted. In advanced stages, it may wear away completely. Without their normal gliding surfaces, the bones grind against one another, causing inflammation, pain and restricted movement. Bone spurs may form. Comments |
