Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis caused by the degeneration of cartilage in the joints causing bone to rub on bone. It is also known as degenerative joint disease.
The most common cause of osteoarthritis is increasing age. Examples of other risk factors associated with the disease are previous injury to the joint, repeated stress on the joint, metabolic conditions such as diabetes and obesity.
Osteoarthritis can’t be reversed; however, an individualised exercise program will help ease the pain and keep the muscles surrounding the area to maintain as much strength and flexibility as possible to support the joint. Physical activity for weight loss will also reduce the stress on the joint as well prevent metabolic conditions such as diabetes, stroke, heart conditions and high blood pressure. Conservative physical therapy treatment may prevent the need for injections and surgical intervention.