Osteoarthritis (OA) is likely the most common joint disorder in the United States, as it occurs 10% in men and 13% in women aged 60 years or older. These numbers are likely to increase as they depend on the aging of the population and the obesity epidemic.
OA is the wear and tear of the connective tissue within the joint. This connective tissue, called articular cartilage, prevents one bone from scraping against another as it acts as a shock absorber in the joint and allows for smooth and stable movement within the joint.
When the articular cartilage thins, the joint can inflame and you may feel pain and stiffness in the joint, limiting your range of motion.