Athletes, dancers and heavy laborers are especially at risk due to excessive strain on their joints. Osteoarthritis causes permanent breakdown of the cartilage layers that cushion joints from impact and allow joints to create smooth gliding motions. Most commonly, OA affects the hips, knees, spine, toes and fingers. The deterioration of joint structure occurs in several phases. Damage may occur slowly over a person's lifetime or be exacerbated in younger people from extensive overuse or injury.
Damaged cartilage is unable to replenish or repair itself, and it becomes frayed.
It becomes less flexible and is more prone to injury and damage. Over time, the cartilage can wear away completely, causing the bones of the joint to rub directly against each other. Tiny shards of bone and cartilage float loosely in the joint space. At this stage, the pain can be quite severe. As OA progresses, you may have to curb or quit everyday activities like shopping or walking, not to mention recreational activities such as golfing, bicycle riding and traveling.