Osteoarthritis

When the joints of the body lose their flexibility and begin to cause pain and problems moving the joint, it could be osteoarthritis (OA). It is among the most common conditions that affect the joints worldwide and is most prevalent among the elderly and even middle-aged people. OA can affect any joint in the body, but the joints which are most often used like the neck, knees, lower back and hips are affected. Nevertheless, even the tiny joints such as those in the fingers can also become affected.

Pain and discomfort are the most evident symptoms of OA, and the pain will radiate from the affected joint. In the case of OA occurring in the lower back, the pain will originate from the affected area and spread outwards. Since the spine is responsible for providing sensation to the legs, the pain can extend down the legs. This pain will usually seem to shoot downwards after certain movements that involve the pelvis and subside while resting.