It is the most common form of arthritis. The peak onset of osteoarthritis is in middle age and more women than men are affected . One in 3 people over 60 are affected and more than 3 in 4 individuals over the age of seventy show some radiographic evidence of the condition. However, problems of osteoarthritis can sometimes be found in younger people. Symptoms of Osteoarthritis People frequently see osteoarthritis as being a progressive and disabling disease.
Some people certainly do experience symptoms of severe pain and stiffness.
But for many, symptoms are mild and cause only temporary and occasional problems. Pain may be present at rest, but generally, it is brought on by periods of increased use or some minor injury. Sometimes, it's accompanied by swelling. Although any synovial joint in the body may be affected by osteoarthritis, certain groups of joints are more usually affected. The knees and hands are the commonest joints involved, followed by the spine, hips, ankles and shoulders.