Osteoarthritis
خشونة المفاصل
The most common form of arthritis, caused by the gradual breakdown of the cartilage that cushions the joints, most often affecting the knees, hips, and hands. It typically develops with age and causes joint pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion, managed with physical therapy, weight management, and pain relief.
This information is for general awareness only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Quick answer
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. It develops when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in a joint gradually wears down, and the joint's structures change. It most often affects the knees, hips, hands and spine.
Typical symptoms are joint pain that worsens with activity, stiffness (especially after rest or in the morning, usually settling within 30 minutes), reduced movement and sometimes swelling.
OA is diagnosed from symptoms and examination, with X-rays when needed. It can't be reversed, but exercise, weight management, physiotherapy, pain relief and, for advanced disease, joint replacement can greatly improve function and quality of life.
Symptoms
Joint pain
Worse with activity and eased by rest, later sometimes present at rest or at night.
Stiffness
After rest or in the morning, usually lasting less than 30 minutes.
Reduced range of movement
Swelling or bony enlargement of the joint
Grating or crackling sensation (crepitus)
Joint instability or 'giving way'
Especially in the knee.
Muscle weakness around the joint
Difficulty with daily tasks
Such as climbing stairs, walking or gripping.
Symptom guides
Causes and risk factors
Causes
- Progressive wear of joint cartilage — Cartilage becomes thinner and rougher, and bone around the joint responds by changing shape.
- Whole-joint changes — OA involves the cartilage, bone, ligaments and joint lining, not just 'wear and tear'.
- Previous joint injury — Fractures, ligament or meniscus injuries can lead to OA later.
Risk factors
- Older age
- Overweight or obesity — Increases load on knees and hips, and may also have metabolic effects.
- Previous joint injury or surgery
- Family history
- Repetitive strain or physically demanding work
- Being female, especially after menopause
- Joint deformity or misalignment
How is it diagnosed?
OA is usually diagnosed from your history and examination; imaging supports the diagnosis and rules out other conditions.
History and examination
Pattern of pain and stiffness, joint tenderness, movement, swelling and function.
X-ray
Shows narrowing of the joint space, bone spurs and other changes.
Blood tests
Not needed to diagnose OA but may be used to exclude inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout.
MRI or ultrasound
Used selectively for unclear cases or to look at soft tissues.
Treatment
Treatment aims to reduce pain, maintain movement and improve function. It is tailored to the joint affected and how severe the disease is.
Exercise and physiotherapy
Strengthening and aerobic exercise are among the most effective treatments.
Weight management
Losing weight reduces load on weight-bearing joints.
Pain relief
Topical or oral pain medicines as advised by a doctor or pharmacist, chosen with your other conditions in mind.
Injections
Corticosteroid injections may give short-term relief in selected joints.
Aids and supports
Walking aids, appropriate footwear, braces or heat and cold as advised.
Joint replacement surgery
For severe OA with persistent pain and loss of function despite other treatments.
Some pain-relief medicines aren't suitable for people with stomach, kidney, heart or blood-pressure problems — ask a doctor or pharmacist.
When should you see a doctor?
Arrange a medical assessment if
- Joint pain lasting more than a few weeks
- Pain that disturbs sleep or limits daily tasks
- A joint that is locking, giving way or increasingly deformed
- Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
- Side effects from pain medicines
Seek urgent care if
- A hot, red, swollen joint with fever (possible infection)
- Sudden severe joint pain after a fall or injury, or inability to bear weight
- Numbness, weakness or loss of bladder or bowel control with back pain
Prevention
Maintain a healthy weight
Stay physically active
Regular low-impact exercise keeps joints and muscles strong.
Protect joints from injury
Use proper technique and equipment in sport and at work.
Treat joint injuries promptly and complete rehabilitation
Avoid repetitive overload where possible
Frequently asked questions
What is osteoarthritis?
A common joint condition in which cartilage wears down and the joint changes, causing pain and stiffness.
Is osteoarthritis just part of getting older?
It becomes more common with age, but it isn't inevitable, and being active and keeping a healthy weight help.
Can osteoarthritis be reversed?
No, but symptoms can be well controlled and function improved with exercise, weight management and treatment.
Should I rest or exercise with osteoarthritis?
Regular, appropriate exercise is beneficial. A physiotherapist can advise on safe activities.
What is the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?
OA is due to joint degeneration; rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory disease that typically causes prolonged morning stiffness and swelling in multiple joints.
When is joint replacement needed?
When pain and disability remain severe despite other treatments, after assessment by an orthopaedic surgeon.
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Medical sources
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