Finding the Causes and Cures for Arthritis & Osteoarthritis-YOU Can Make a Difference Its research has been published in prestigious scientific journals such as Osteoarthritis and Cartilage, Rheumatology and The American Journal of Physical Therapy. ARIA’s research is supported by tax-deductible donations and bequests from the public. The organization does not perform animal or drug testing. Founded by visionary orthopedic surgeon John Barrett M.D., ARIA is dedicated to find-ing the cure for the next generation. “A future without osteoarthritis for our children, grandchildren and beyond is a precious gift we can start giving them now,” says Dr. Barrett. What is arthritis? The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis, the “wear-and-tear” type that affects millions of adults as they age. Rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis are two other common types of this disease. Gouty arthritis afflicted Benjamin Franklin during his adult life and caused him great pain. Arthritis conditions aren't common only in humans. Many pet owners know that their dogs and cats suffer similar symptoms. In fact, some dinosaur bones show evidence that prehistoric animals had arthritis conditions! What is osteoarthritis? The cartilage that covers the ends of weight-bearing joints such as the knee, hips and ankles begins to break down. The joints in the hands, feet and cervical spine are also common areas for osteoarthritis to develop.
As one's osteoarthritis becomes more severe, pain and immobility will severely affect the patient's ability to enjoy life. Aging and being overweight can increase your chances of developing osteoarthritis, as well as an injury to a certain joint or a family history of the disease. What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis? Deep, aching pain in the joints is often the first symptom of osteoarthritis. After a workout, it may take longer to recover. Activities that never caused discomfort begin to cause pain. Joints may begin to feel stiff when it's time to get out of bed or after prolonged sitting. Crackling joints that look larger or change shape may be another symptom. How can I live with osteoarthritis? Movement that doesn't stress the joints, but strengthens the muscles around them, may also be beneficial. Ask your doctor to recommend an exercise that is low impact, but beneficial to your mental and physical health. What if I need surgery? A new joint called a prosthesis is used to replace the damaged area. The prosthesis can be made of plastic, metal or a combination of both.
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ARIA is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that has been conducting osteoarthritis research in Clearwater, Florida for more than two decades. Its 25-year Clearwater Osteoarthritis Study began in 1988 and has more than 3,700 participants. 
As the cartilage breaks down with age or after an injury, the smooth surface that would normally cushion the movement of bones that form the joints becomes thinner or rougher. In severe osteoarthritis, the cartilage will wear away completely and cause bones to grind each other without a shock absorber. Pain, inflammation and lack of mobility are the results. 
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