# Osteoarthritis --- **Osteoarthritis**, or **OA** (also knowns as **degenerative joint disease** or **DJD**) is the most common form of [[joint.md#Problems with Joints|arthritis]], and is caused by a degeneration of the [[cartilage]] and [[connective tissue]] of [[synovial joint|synovial joints]]. It's the "wear and tear" form of arthritis, as opposed to the inflammation kind, or [[rheumatoid arthritis]]. OA usually affects weight-bearing joints such as the **knees** and **hips** but is also seen elsewhere like the hands. It's the leading cause of disability for [[older adult]]. ## Risk Factors - age - typically develops after age 40 - AFAB people - [[obesity]] - trauma - muscle weakness - repetitive use of joint - [[infection]] - underlying bone disease/deformity ## Signs & Symptoms OA presents with local, asymmetric, joint pain as the predominant symptom. This pain can be relieved with rest and may be worsened by environmental temperature changes. The pain is often worse in the morning for about 30 minutes. You may also see: - inflamed nodules in the finger joints (Bouchard and Heberden nodes) - palpable or audible crepitus when moving joint ## Prevention & Treatment Weight reduction, ultrasound therapy, PT/OT, assistive devices, tai chi, massage, acupuncture, relaxation - **Medical** - OTC pain meds - **Surgical** - [[joint replacement]] ___