Living with Osteoarthritis

Arthritis in all its forms, including osteoarthritis (OA), is the number one cause of disability in the U.S. Knee arthritis is a particularly disabling: It's one of the five leading causes of disability among adults. About a 25% of all adults... Full Answer

Experts are exploring the link between genetics (your family history) and osteoarthritis. It is not yet known exactly what elements of family history can increase risk, such as genetic risk of obesity, how genetics physically affects the shape of... Full Answer

A doctor can help you choose or fit you for an appropriate walking cane. From the ground, the cane should reach the top of your wrist when your arms are hanging at rest. Your doctor will also instruct you on how best to use it as an aid in... Full Answer

Looking at the latest numbers, we see that nearly 27 million Americans suffer from osteoarthritis (OA). It's the most prevalent form of arthritis in the U.S., with more than a third of all adults between the ages of 55 and 78 affected. Overall,... Full Answer

Adults who are overweight or obese have more osteoarthritis than people who are not. Some research suggests that 66% of adults who have been diagnosed with arthritis are overweight or obese, compared to 53% of adults who do not have arthritis.... Full Answer

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that osteoarthritis and other forms of arthritis have been the most common cause of disability for at least the past 15 years. About 42% of adults who have been diagnosed with... Full Answer

Both men and women tend to suffer from osteoarthritis at similar rates between ages 45 and 55. But after age 55, more women than men have it. Researchers don't know why. Black women have also been shown to have more knee osteoarthritis than white... Full Answer

Although MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) might help reduce osteoarthritis pain, there are no solid studies documenting this effect, nor are there studies proving it is safe for long-term use. So until larger, better-controlled studies are published, stick to... Full Answer

Scientific research on the possible benefit of over-the-counter supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin in reducing joint pain and improving function with osteoarthritis is very limited and inconclusive. Some physicians suggest that their... Full Answer

If someone in your home has osteoarthritis, it's important to make the home as safe as possible to help prevent falls from happening. Serious injuries that can significantly decrease quality of life can occur from falls and can even lead to a... Full Answer