The Definition of Osteoarthritis

Arthritis is the name given for painful joint diseases. There are more than 100 different forms of arthritis that affect more than 43 million Americans and 20% of the adult population. This makes arthritis one of the most common health problems in the U.S.

Arthritis also is the leading cause of disability. Nearly 7 million people in the U.S., including 20% of people with arthritis, are unable to perform major life activities such as working or housekeeping because of this disease. Arthritis sufferers endure more days in severe pain, experience more days with limited ability to perform daily activities, and have more difficulty performing personal-care routines than people without arthritis. As with other chronic pain conditions, arthritis has negative effects on mental health. Some forms of arthritis also affect your RealAge negatively.