Osteoarthritis 1: physiology, risk factors and causes of pain

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a synovial joint disorder characterised by pain, stiffness, and restricted function. It is often classed as a degenerative disease because the affected joints deteriorate over time.

This article, the first in a three-part series, describes the complex pathophysiology and causes of pain in OA, risk factors, and how it is diagnosed.