Knee Osteoarthritis

Abstract

Osteoarthritis is a painful condition caused by a gradual loss of cartilage from the joint surfaces. Healthy cartilage allows bones to smoothly glide over one another. It also absorbs energy from the shock of physical movement. In osteoarthritis, the surface layer of cartilage breaks and wears away. This allows bones under the cartilage to rub together, causing pain, swelling, and loss of motion of the joint.