Osteoarthritis, the most common degenerative joint disease, is predominantly a disease of aging. Typically, weight-bearing joints, including the knees, hips, and feet, are affected. Aside from aging, important risk factors are obesity, significant joint injury, and overuse. Even though there is no way to prevent or cure osteoarthritis, maintaining ideal weight and exercising to strengthen muscles have been shown to provide pain relief. A wide variety of over-the-counter and prescription therapies are also available to alleviate pain. It’s a good idea to consult your healthcare provider, however, to rule out rheumatoid arthritis, a more serious autoimmune disease of the joints.