24th February 2025

Overview of OA

OA is a common chronic degenerative condition of the joint cartilage, affecting millions of patients across the UK, resulting in a significant economic impact due to lost working days. The pathogenesis is thought to be a dynamic process of cartilage loss, synovial inflammation and bone remodelling, mediated by matrix metalloproteinases. OA is characterised by pain and, as the disease progresses, deformity and loss of function. It typically affects the large, weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips and spine.

Risk factors for OA include: female gender, advancing age, family history, obesity, previous trauma and vitamin D deficiency. Secondary OA can occur due to endocrine (acromegaly), metabolic (haemochromatosis, hyperparathyroidism), inflammatory (crystal arthropathy) and neuropathic (diabetes mellitus) conditions.