Skip to main content

What is Osteoarthritis?

2 min read

By Emily Lockhart

Osteoarthritis (or OA) affects approximately 27 million Americans. This very prevalent, degenerative joint disorder occurs due to the normal aging process, meaning by the age of 70-years-old, most of us will suffer some symptoms of OA.  However, OA also results from wear and tear on a joint when cartilage, the rubbery tissue that surrounds our bones and cushions movement at the joint, breaks down. The result is friction between bones that causes pain, swelling, stiffness, and even bony spurs around the joint.

Men and women are equally plagued by OA before the age of 55. However, it’s more prevalent in women 55 and plus. Otherwise, OA commonly exists in those with a family history of the disease; those with genetic predilection to OA (i.e., existing joint or cartilage dysfunction); overweight individuals who carry excess weight on the weight-bearing joints like the hips, knees, ankles, and feet; those who’ve broken a bone or have a pre-existing joint injury; or in those who repetitively kneel or squat in their job or sport for more than an hour a day. Bleeding disorders that block the supply of fresh blood to a joint (such as avascular necrosis) or other types of arthritis (such as gout) can also gradually develop into OA over time.

Symptoms of OA typically include pain and stiffness when extra pressure is placed on the joint. “Morning stiffness”, which is a 30-minute bout of discomfort as the joint warms up after a period of inactivity, will often cause that common crackling or rubbing sound deep in the joint.

Emily Lockhart

Contributor

Emily Lockhart is a certified yoga instructor and personal trainer. She believes that being healthy is a lifestyle choice, not a punishment or temporary fix to attain a desired fitness or body image goal. Anna helps her clients take responsibility for their own health and wellness through her classes and articles on ActiveBeat.

Your Health

Explore

Winter Skin Care Tips: Protecting Your Skin from Harsh Weather
By Clarissa Vanner Your Health

Winter Skin Care Tips: Protecting Your Skin from Harsh Weather

Are you struggling with dry, flaky skin as the temperature drops? You’re not alone! Many people face the challenge of maintaining healthy skin during the colder months. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to shield your skin from winter’s harsh elements. By adjusting your skincare routine, you can keep your skin moisturized, radiant, […]

Read More about Winter Skin Care Tips: Protecting Your Skin from Harsh Weather

3 min read

Cold Weather and Joint Pain: How to Stay Comfortable This Winter
By Clarissa Vanner Your Health

Cold Weather and Joint Pain: How to Stay Comfortable This Winter

As the temperature drops and winter sets in, many people experience increased joint pain and stiffness. Cold weather can exacerbate conditions like arthritis, making it harder to stay active and comfortable. While this seasonal discomfort is common, there are effective ways to manage pain and keep your joints feeling better. With the right strategies and […]

Read More about Cold Weather and Joint Pain: How to Stay Comfortable This Winter

3 min read

‘Natural Mounjaro’: What to Know About the Viral Weight-Loss Drink
By Clarissa Vanner Your Health

‘Natural Mounjaro’: What to Know About the Viral Weight-Loss Drink

The “Natural Mounjaro” drink has taken the internet by storm, claiming to replicate the effects of the prescription weight-loss medication Mounjaro. Made with just four ingredients—water, lemon, honey, and ginger—this viral drink is praised for its supposed ability to suppress appetite and promote fat burning. But can it really deliver the same results as a […]

Read More about ‘Natural Mounjaro’: What to Know About the Viral Weight-Loss Drink

3 min read