Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common condition to affect synovial joints, causing significant pain that can affect our daily lives.

As cartilage in our joints begins to wear down, there is an increase in friction which can cause an increase in inflammatory substances and further breakdown in cartilage. As a result, osteophyte formation or bone spurs may appear, introducing changes in joint architecture which can lead to debilitating pain with daily activities.

The etiology of osteoarthritis is multifactorial including genetic mechanical and biochemical factors. As incidence increases with age, OA was thought of as an inevitable consequence of mechanical trauma throughout the years. However, more recent evidence has shown that biochemical factors play a role in the condition.