Osteoarthritis is one of the commonest diseases affecting the joints and the symptoms usually occur as we age. The weight bearing joints like the hips and
knees are affected in most of the cases. Less commonly, the non-weight bearing joints like the shoulder, elbow, finger and ankle may get affected.
Although osteoarthritis is more common in the elderly, it can also be seen in young people due to an abnormal wear and tear in joint structures following fracture, repeated dislocation of the joint, infections, obesity or hyperthyroidism (over secretion of thyroxin hormone from the thyroid gland).