Definition
osteoarthritis
noun
- a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and bone, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, especially in older adults
Usage: medical term; also called degenerative joint disease or OA
Examples
- My grandmother was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in her knees after years of running.
- Osteoarthritis commonly affects the hands, hips, and spine.
- Physical therapy can help manage the pain of osteoarthritis.
- Unlike rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis is not an autoimmune disease.
- Weight loss and exercise are recommended treatments for osteoarthritis.
- The doctor explained that osteoarthritis develops when protective cartilage wears down over time.