What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is an inflammation of the joint, commonly the hip or knee joint.

• Cartilage is the smooth shock absorbing Teflon-like covering on the ends of the bone
• Inflammation results in a destruction of the cartilage
• Damaged cartilage allows the rough bones on either side of the joint to rub against each together causing pain and restricted motion

Diagnosis is made by your physician based on a physical examination and x-rays. The doctor is looking for:

• pain around the joint
• grating or crunching in the joint
• decreased motion
• swelling around the joint