Type of arthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of the disease, affecting more than 70 % of adults between the ages of 55 and 78, the majority being women. Doctors mainly view osteoarthritis as a ‘normal’ degenerative process related to age, or a condition that commonly after infection or injury, or who are overweight. Osteoarthritis, also known as ‘wear-and-tear’ arthritis, affects the cartilage of joints, causing it to break down.. As the cartilage breaks down, it becomes frayed and rough, and the protective space between the bones decreases. During movement, the bones of the joint rub against each other, causing pain. Over time the cartilage dries out, becoming cracked and pitted, no longer allowing smooth movement of the joint.