M19: Other arthrosis

M19.9: Arthrosis, unspecified

Arthrosis, also known as osteoarthritis, is a common condition affecting the joints in the body. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness and often reduced movement in the joints. Any joint in the body can be affected, but it's most commonly seen in the hands, knees, hip and spine. The condition tends to progress gradually and over time can lead to significant reduction in quality of life due to decreased mobility and constant discomfort or pain. While it occurs more frequently as people age, other factors such as heredity, obesity, injury or overuse can also contribute to the onset of arthrosis. Although it's a chronic disease, nonsurgical treatments can alleviate a lot of the symptoms, and making lifestyle changes can slow the progression of the disease.