Can osteochondritis dissecans lead to arthritis?

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is a condition that occurs when a small piece of bone and cartilage in a joint separates from the main bone. This can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joint, and can lead to arthritis if left untreated.

Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and damage to the joints. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, injury, and certain autoimmune diseases. OCD can lead to arthritis if the condition is not treated properly and the fragment of bone and cartilage remains loose in the joint. This can cause damage to the joint surface and lead to inflammation and pain.

Treatment for OCD typically involves rest, ice, and physical therapy to reduce pain and swelling and to help the bone and cartilage fragment to heal. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the loose fragment or to repair the joint surface.