Picture of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative form of arthritis that results in the destruction of cartilage, which cushions the joint space between bones. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, and it affects an estimated 27 million people in the United States. Increasing age is a risk factor for osteoarthritis. Under the age of 45 years, men are more likely to be affected. After the age of 45, more women get the condition. The joints most commonly affected by osteoarthritis include the knees, hips, lower back, neck, thumbs, and the joints at the tips of the fingers.