A picture of osteoarthritis in Australia

Osteoarthritis is the most common chronic joint disease, causing large amounts of disability and pain in the Australian community. Osteoarthritis impacts on the mental health and quality of life of people with the disease. There are a number of risk factors for osteoarthritis including excess weight or obesity, joint injury, repetitive kneeling or squatting and repetitive heavy lifting. Osteoarthritis can be effectively managed with medication, exercise and in some cases surgery. This report brings together the latest data to highlight the impact of osteoarthritis in Australia. The report includes information on the causes, treatment and management of the disease. The information included in the report should be useful to the broader community, policy makers and anyone with an interest in osteoarthritis.