While there are many types of arthritis, osteoarthritis is the most common form and affects more than 25 million Americans. Osteoarthritis, or OA, is due to the loss of the cartilage cushion that lines the joints, leading to joint pain, reduced range of motion, and occasionally swelling and deformity.
OA is more common as we age, more prevalent in women compared with men after the age of 55, and more likely to occur in people who are obese or in those who have a lot of stress on their joints. It also has a predilection for certain joints, especially the hips, knees, spine and hands. http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/health/2016480084_integrative14.html
