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What is Arthritis? What causes osteoarthritis?
The exact cause isn’t known. A person may be at increased risk of osteoarthritis because it runs in the family. Osteoarthritis seems to be related to the wear and tear put on joints over the years in most people. But wear and tear alone doesn’t cause osteoarthritis.
Arthritis means inflammation of the joints. It causes pain and usually also limits movement of the joints that are affected. There are many kinds of arthritis. A type called osteoarthritis (also known as degenerative joint disease) is the most common.
What happens when a joint is affected?
Normally a smooth layer of cartilage acts as a pad between the bones of a joint. Cartilage helps the joint move easily and comfortably. In some people, the cartilage thins as the joints are used. This is the start of osteoarthritis. Over time, the cartilage wears away and the bones may rub against one another. This can cause pain, joint swelling and stiffness.
Who gets osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is more common in older people because they have been using their joints longer. Using the joint to do the same task over and over or simply using them over time can make osteoarthritis worse.
Younger people can also get osteoarthritis. Athletes are at risk because they use their joints so much. People you have jobs that require the same movement over and over are also at risk. Injuries to a joint can increase the risk of arthritis in the joint later on. 1
Can Pets get Arthritis?
Yes arthritis is just as common among our best friend as it is to their human counterpart.
Pets develop arthritis is their joints very much the same as people.
It is my goal to provide quality dietary supplements and comfort therapy for both people and pets.
It is my mission to help maintain the aches and pains associated with arthritis (osteoarthritis).
1- family doctor.org
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