The most common type of arthritis in the
United States,osteoarthritis (OA) is a complex
disease involving biomechanical, genetic,
and environmental processes. Of the many
risk factors for OA, genetics and aging are the most
significant contributors to the primary form of the
disease, while obesity and injury are the most common
secondary factors. Its manifestations range
from asymptomatic joint changes seen on X-ray
to severe disability. While the most common problems
with OA are joint pain and functional impairment,
the risk factors, clinical manifestations,
and radiographic findings vary for different joints.
The course of OA is extremely variable, and its outcome
is difficult to predict