Osteoarthritis​

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and the risk of its prevalence rises with increasing age. The underlying abnormality in the medical condition is the cartilage (a rubber-like covering at the ends of each bone). The cartilage naturally prevents the bones from grinding against each other and also acts as a shock absorber. When this protective cushion starts breaking down, the bones in a joint begin to rub against each other during movement, causing pain. Bony growths (called “bony spurs”) may form due to thickening of the bone ends and fluid filled cysts (like bubbles) can develop in the bone, both of which interfere with joint movement. 

Osteoarthritis mainly affects the weight-bearing joints such as the hips, knee or spine. Hands may become affected as well. These presenting complaints can be mild and bearable initially, but they usually become worse as time passes. It may reach a point where you find it difficult to function through activities of daily life. 

Osteoarthritis can be classified as primary (linked to old age) and secondary. Causes of the latter type include injury, overuse, infection or birth defect of joint. Obesity is a known risk factor and the development of osteoarthritis may have a hereditary link as well. Hormone disorders, for example diabetes, also play a causal role.

Females are more prone to this disease, although usually after the age of 55 years.

When to seek expert advise

​It is natural to experience pain in joints after direct injury or exercise. However, if you are experiencing joint pain or stiffness that persists for more than a few weeks, it requires medical attention. Physicians at the Department Of Orthopaedics at The Aga Khan University Hospital will be able to evaluate your complaints with sound medical expertise.
For a preliminary examination, you can consult a doctor at the Department of Family Medicine.