OA is often referred to as ‘degenerative joint disease’ and usually develops slowly, over a period of years. It is a very common disease – 6% of adults aged 30 and above have frequent knee pain. Over time, the cartilage on the surface of the joint starts to get damaged and wear away and this causes pain and stiffness in the joint.11
If you suffer from arthritis you will be all too familiar with the range of symptoms that it causes and their effect upon your life.
Normal Knee
- Normal cartilage provides a smooth surface so bones can move easily across each other
- High concentration of hyaluronan in synovial fluid cushions and lubricates the joint
- Normal bone
OA Knee
- Eroded cartilage if completely worn away, bones may scrape painfully against each other
- Low concentration of hyaluronan in synovial fluid less able to protect the joint
- Osteophytes (bone spurs)
You may suffer from OA if you have any of these symptoms:
- Stiffness in the morning
- Pain when you move
- Pain even when you are not active
- A crackling sound or a grating feeling when walking
- Red and swollen skin
