Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is also called degenerative joint disease or “wear and tear” arthritis. Almost everyone is affected by it to some extent as they grow older. Osteoarthritis most frequently occurs in weight-bearing joints, mainly knees, hips, and ankles.

This form of arthritis gradually breaks down the cartilage that covers the ends of each bone in a joint.

Normally, cartilage acts as a shock absorber, providing a smooth surface between the bones. But with osteoarthritis, the smooth surface becomes rough and pitted. In advance stages, the cartilage may wear away completely. Without their normal gliding surfaces, the bones grind against one another, causing inflammation, pain, and restricted movement. Bone spurs may form.

In osteoarthritis of the knee, the shape of the bone and appearance of the leg may change over the years. Many people become “bow-legged” or “knock-kneed.”  In osteoarthritis of the hip, the affected leg may appear shorter.

How is osteoarthritis diagnosed?

A simple weight-bearing X-ray and examination by a skilled orthopedic doctor will determine if the patient has osteoarthritis. Time-consuming and costly diagnostic procedures are not required.

What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee and hip?

The number one symptom is pain. The pain is caused by irritation and pressure on nerve endings, as well as muscle tension and fatigue. The pain can progress from mild soreness and aching with movement to severe pain, even when resting.

The second symptom is loss of easy movement, such as bending or rising normally. Morning stiffness is a problem for many people. This lack of mobility, in turn, often causes the muscles serving the knee or hip to weaken, and overall body coordination suffers.