Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, affecting 8.5 million people in the UK. It develops gradually over time, causing joints to become stiff and painful. It can affect any joint but commonly affects the hands, knees, hips, feet and spine.
Osteoarthritis: a real story
Who develops osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis usually develops in people who are over 50 years of age, and it is more common in women than in men. It is commonly thought that osteoarthritis is an inevitable part of getting older, but this is not true. Younger people can also be affected by osteoarthritis, often as a result of an injury or another joint condition.
Useful Links
Arthritis Research UK is the charity leading the fight against arthritis. Everything we do is underpinned by research
Guide to the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and risks of Ostearthritis from the NHS
This factsheet is for people who have osteoarthritis or who would like information about it.
Arthritis Care exists to support people with arthritis. They are the UK’s largest organisation working with and for all people who have arthritis.