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Osteoarthritis — Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, caused by progressive wear of articular cartilage. It commonly affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of articular cartilage, the smooth tissue that covers the ends of bones where they form a joint.
As cartilage wears away, bone rubs against bone, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. OA typically develops gradually over years and is more common in older adults.
While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, effective treatments are available to manage symptoms, maintain joint function, and improve quality of life.
What Causes Osteoarthritis?
Primary osteoarthritis is age-related and results from cumulative wear and tear on joints over time. Risk factors include advancing age, obesity, genetics, and joint overuse.
Secondary osteoarthritis develops following joint injury, fracture, ligament damage, or conditions like rheumatoid arthritis that damage joint structures.
Biomechanical factors such as joint misalignment, muscle weakness, and abnormal joint mechanics can accelerate cartilage wear.
Common Symptoms
Joint pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Pain may become more constant as the condition progresses.
Stiffness, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity, typically lasting less than 30 minutes.
Swelling around affected joints, reduced range of motion, and a grating sensation (crepitus) with joint movement.
Bone spurs (osteophytes) may develop around affected joints, causing visible enlargement and additional discomfort.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies. X-rays typically show joint space narrowing, osteophyte formation, and subchondral bone changes.
MRI may be used to assess cartilage status and rule out other causes of joint pain. Laboratory tests help exclude inflammatory arthritis.
Treatment Options
Conservative management includes weight loss, physical therapy, exercise, and activity modification. These measures reduce joint loading and strengthen supporting muscles.
Medications include acetaminophen, NSAIDs, and topical analgesics. Corticosteroid injections provide temporary relief for flare-ups.
Viscosupplementation (hyaluronic acid injections) may provide lubrication and cushioning in knee osteoarthritis.
When conservative measures fail, joint replacement surgery offers excellent long-term outcomes for advanced OA.
Treatment Options
Common Symptoms
Frequently Asked Questions
Can osteoarthritis be reversed?
Osteoarthritis cannot be reversed, but its progression can be slowed through weight management, exercise, and activity modification. Symptom management is highly effective.
Is exercise good for osteoarthritis?
Yes, appropriate exercise strengthens muscles around affected joints, improves flexibility, and aids weight management. Low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, and walking are recommended.
When is surgery needed for osteoarthritis?
Surgery is considered when pain is severe, function is significantly impaired, and conservative treatments no longer provide adequate relief.
Does weather affect osteoarthritis?
Many patients report increased pain with cold, damp weather. While the mechanism is not fully understood, barometric pressure changes may affect joint pressure and pain sensitivity.
Take the Next Step
Living with osteoarthritis does not mean living with constant pain. Learn about your treatment options.