Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bonmedies wears down over time. Although osteoarthritis can damage any joint, the disorder most commonly affects joints in your hands, knees, hips and spine.

A type of arthritis that occurs when flexible tissue at the ends of bones wears down.

The wearing down of the protective tissue at the ends of bones (cartilage) occurs gradually and worsens over time.

Joint pain in the hands, neck, lower back, knees or hips is the most common symptom.

Medication, physiotherapy and sometimes surgery can help reduce pain and maintain joint movement.Here is a look at the stages of osteoarthritis of the knee ranging from normal, minor, mild, moderate and severe stages, with appropriate treatment plans.

Medications that can help relieve osteoarthritis symptoms, primarily pain, include:

Acetaminophen. Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) has been shown to help some people with osteoarthritis who have mild to moderate pain. ... Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). ... Duloxetine (Cymbalta).

Last Updated on: May 20, 2024