Osteoarthritis Osteoarthritis Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and the one that is often associated with the changes of ageing. Although it affects a large percentage of people over 60, problems of osteoarthritis can often be found in younger people. 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. Osteoarthritis is a condition involving the breakdown of the protective cushion of the cartilage covering the ends of the bones where two bones meet to form a joint. Most of our joints consist of two or more bony surfaces which are carefully shaped to fit together to bear weight and to move freely. The bone ends, known as the articular surface, are covered with a shiny, gristly material called cartilage. Cartilage acts as a shock absorber and provides a smooth surface between the bones to allow easy movement.