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This is a form
of arthritis
involving joint
cartilage with
accompanying
changes in the
associated bone.
It usually
involves loss of
cartilage and
development of
osteophytes
(bony spurs or
projecting
knobs) at the
bone margins.
Osteoarthritis
is a painful
condition
affecting the
functioning of
the joint.
Symptoms include
stiffness and
pain in the
affected joints.
The pain may be
weather-related
and may grow
worse when it is
cold and damp.
There is loss of
dexterity and
movement in the
affected joint.
There may be a
cracking or
grating sound
with movement
and the joint
may show signs
of swelling.
Causes include
the natural
process of
ageing, injury
or overuse and
stress on the
joints. |
