UPSC-CMS 2025 — Orthopaedics

Q: Which of the following joints are commonly affected in osteoarthritis? I. First metatarsophalangeal joint II. Proximal interphalangeal joint III. Ankle joint IV. 5th and 6th cervical vertebrae joint Select the correct answer using the code given below :

I, II and IV only. ***I, II and IV only*** - **Osteoarthritis** commonly affects joints that bear significant weight or are subject to repetitive stress, such as the **first metatarsophalangeal joint**, **proximal interphalangeal joints**, and the **cervical spine**. - Degenerative changes in these joints, including cartilage loss and **osteophyte formation**, are characteristic findings in osteoarthritis. *I, II, III and IV* - While the first metatarsophalangeal joint, proximal interphalangeal joints, and cervical vertebrae are commonly affected, the **ankle joint** is typically spared in primary osteoarthritis. - Ankle involvement in osteoarthritis is usually secondary to **trauma** or inflammatory arthritis rather than primary degenerative change. *III and IV only* - This option misses the common involvement of the **first metatarsophalangeal joint** and **proximal interphalangeal joints**, which are frequently affected in osteoarthritis. - The ankle joint is less commonly involved in primary osteoarthritis compared to other load-bearing joints like the **knee** and **hip**. *I and II only* - This option incorrectly omits the **cervical vertebrae**, which are a very common site for osteoarthritis, often leading to neck pain and **radiculopathy**. - While the metatarsophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints are correct, the exclusion of the cervical spine makes this option incomplete. [Practice more Orthopaedics PYQs on OnCourse]

1 Previous Year Questions with Answers & Explanations

Questions

Which of the following joints are commonly affected in osteoarthritis? I. First metatarsophalangeal joint II. Proximal interphalangeal joint III. Ankle joint IV. 5th and 6th cervical vertebrae joint Select the correct answer using the code given below :