Orthopaedics · Bones, joints and movement

Osteoarthritis

Understand this common joint condition, how it is diagnosed and ways to preserve mobility.

Editorial publication · Medical review pending.

Understand

Osteoarthritis is a long-term condition in which tissues in a joint, including cartilage, change and may cause pain and stiffness.

Use-related pain, usually brief morning stiffness, swelling, tenderness, grating and reduced movement may occur.

Age, previous injury, other joint disease, repeated loading, excess weight and family factors can increase risk.

Diagnosis is mainly based on symptoms and examination of the joints while considering other causes of pain.

X-rays or blood tests are not always needed, but may define damage or rule out another condition.

The course varies: symptoms may fluctuate and do not necessarily worsen continuously.

Suitable exercise, strengthening, weight management, aids and pain treatment may be discussed; surgery is considered for selected severe cases.

Seek advice if joint pain or stiffness persists, limits daily activities or does not improve with simple measures.

A suddenly very painful, red or hot joint, especially with fever or inability to bear weight, needs urgent assessment.

A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.