Osteoarthritis: An Overview

Abstract

Osteoarthritis (OA), also known as degenerative joint disease, is the most common form of arthritis and a leading cause of disability worldwide. The incidence of OA increases with age, and disproportionately affects women. [1] Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage in a joint to become stiff and lose its elasticity, making it more susceptible to damage. Over time, the cartilage may wear away in some areas, greatly decreasing its ability to act as a shock absorber. As the cartilage deteriorates, tendons and ligaments stretch, causing pain. If the condition worsens, the bones could rub against each other. The disease most commonly affects the middle-aged and elderly, although younger people may be affected as a result of injury or overuse. Age is the strongest predictor of the disease and therefore increasing age and extended life expectancy will result in a greater occurrence of the disease. Patients affected by this disease suffer from pain and loss of function. [1] The various treatments available are not capable of regenerating the muscle tissue back and decreasing the intensity of the disease hence; a new method called PRP (Platelet-rich Plasma) is nowadays being implemented.