Osteoarthritis living patient overview

Overview

Osteoarthritis is a condition where the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time. This causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints, most commonly in the hands, knees, hips, and spine.

Yes, osteoarthritis is very common, especially as people age. It is the leading cause of disability in older adults.

Osteoarthritis can affect both men and women. It is most common in people over the age of 50, but it can also occur in younger people, especially after a joint injury or if you have a family history of the condition.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Joint pain during or after movement
• Stiffness, especially when you wake up or after sitting for a long time
• Tenderness when you press on the joint
• Loss of flexibility or difficulty moving the joint
• A grating sensation or crunching sound when you move the joint
• Bone spurs – extra bits of bone that feel like hard lumps around the joint

Symptoms in children

• Osteoarthritis is rare in children, but it can happen after a joint injury or because of other joint conditions.
• Symptoms in children are similar to adults: pain, swelling, and trouble moving the joint.
• In growing children, the condition may also affect bone growth, so it's important to see a doctor.

Symptoms in older adults

• Symptoms are the same as in younger adults, but they may be more persistent and affect daily activities like walking, dressing, or climbing stairs.
• Older adults may also have weaker muscles around the joints, which can make symptoms worse.

Causes

Main causes

• Wear and tear on the joints over many years
• Joint injuries (like fractures or ligament tears) that damage cartilage
• Genetics – some people inherit a tendency to develop osteoarthritis

Risk factors

• Getting older
• Being overweight or obese, which puts extra stress on weight-bearing joints
• Having a job or hobby that involves repetitive joint movements
• Previous joint injury or surgery
• Family history of osteoarthritis

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have sudden severe joint pain with redness, warmth, or swelling – this could be an infection.
• If you cannot move a joint or bear weight on it after an injury.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have persistent joint pain or stiffness that lasts more than a few weeks.
• If the pain is affecting your daily activities, sleep, or mood.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will diagnose osteoarthritis based on your symptoms, a physical exam, and sometimes imaging tests. There is no single blood test for osteoarthritis, but your doctor may order tests to rule out other types of arthritis.

Tests that may be done

• X-rays – to see bone spurs and narrowing of joint space (signs of cartilage loss)
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – gives a more detailed picture of cartilage and soft tissues
• Joint fluid analysis – removing fluid from the joint to check for inflammation or infection

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor will ask about your pain, stiffness, and what makes them better or worse. They will examine your joints for swelling, warmth, and range of motion. The diagnosis is often clear from the history and exam, but tests help confirm it and rule out other conditions.

Treatment

Treatment for osteoarthritis focuses on relieving pain, improving joint function, and helping you stay active. It often starts with simple lifestyle changes and may include physical therapy, medications, or surgery if needed.

Self-care at home

• Stay active with low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on joints
• Use hot or cold packs to ease pain and stiffness
• Use assistive devices like a cane or walker if needed
• Do gentle stretching exercises to keep joints flexible

Medical treatments

Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, but always follow the recommended dose. Prescription medications include stronger pain relievers or topical creams. Corticosteroid injections into the joint can reduce inflammation temporarily. Hyaluronic acid injections may help lubricate the joint. These treatments are not cures but can help manage symptoms.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery may be considered if pain is severe and other treatments have not helped. Common surgeries include joint replacement (such as hip or knee replacement) or joint fusion. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits with you.

Living with this condition

Living with osteoarthritis means finding a balance between activity and rest. Pace yourself – do not overdo it on good days. Use joint protection techniques, such as using larger joints to carry things and avoiding movements that cause pain.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep moving: low-impact exercises strengthen muscles around joints and improve flexibility
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein
• Avoid high-impact activities that jar your joints, like running on hard surfaces
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques or hobbies you enjoy

Diet and exercise

A healthy diet can help you maintain a healthy weight, which reduces pressure on joints. Focus on calcium and vitamin D for bone health (from dairy, leafy greens, and fortified foods). Exercise is crucial – aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week, like brisk walking or water aerobics. Always warm up and cool down gently.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Chronic pain can lead to frustration, anxiety, or depression. It's normal to feel down sometimes. Talk to your doctor or a counselor if you're struggling. Staying connected with friends and family and joining a support group can also help.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent osteoarthritis, but you can reduce your risk. Keep a healthy weight, avoid joint injuries by using proper techniques during sports and work, and stay active to keep muscles strong around your joints.

Complications

If left untreated

• Chronic pain that limits daily activities
• Permanent joint stiffness or deformity
• Muscle weakness from not using the joint
• Difficulty walking or moving, leading to falls

Long-term outlook

Osteoarthritis is a long-term condition, but with proper management, most people can continue to lead active and fulfilling lives. Treatments and lifestyle changes can significantly help control symptoms and improve quality of life. New treatments are being developed, and there is always hope.

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