There are over 100 different types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis, affecting about 21 million Americans according to the Arthritis Foundation. Actually, the term osteoarthritis is a bit misleading. “Osteo” comes from the Greek word for bone; you would expect, therefore, that the name refers to an inflammation of the bone. In reality, OA is a degenerative joint disease, characterized by breakdown of the cartilage that surrounds and cushions the bones.

Once the cartilage begins to break down, the joint enters a cycle of pain and deterioration. Learn more about this diagnosis from this easy-to-read guide.  A Joint Venture: Your Guide to Osteoarthritis