TY - CHAP M1 - Book, Section TI - Osteoarthritis A1 - Misher, Anne A2 - Sutton, S. Scott PY - 2020 T2 - McGraw Hill’s NAPLEX® Review Guide, 4e AB - Osteoarthritis (OA) is a joint disease arising from different pathophysiological causes with manifestations of joint damage, mechanical stress, and loss of articular cartilage. A normal joint is composed of subchondral bone covered by a thin layer of articular cartilage. The interarticular space separates the adjoining subchondral bone and is cushioned with synovial fluid. Articular cartilage allows frictionless movement and uniform load distribution. Muscles, ligaments, and tendons surround the joint providing strength, maintaining stability, and absorbing load. However, there are several physiologic changes that lead to a weakened joint, instability with loss of dexterity, development of pain, and decreased mobility. Weight-bearing joints such as the knee and hip are mainly affected in OA; however, joints of the hand, foot, lumbar, and cervical spine may also be involved. SN - PB - McGraw-Hill Education CY - New York, NY Y2 - 2024/04/19 UR - accesspharmacy.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=1179735586 ER -