Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, often referred to as degenerative joint disease. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time, leading to friction between the bones when the affected joints are used. This causes pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility in the joints. Osteoarthritis commonly affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine, but it can also occur in the hands and other areas.

In healthy joints, the ends of bones are covered by a layer of tough, smooth cartilage, which acts as both a shock absorber and a lubricant, allowing for smooth, frictionless movement. In osteoarthritis, this cartilage gradually wears away, causing the bones in your joints to rub against each other, leading to pain, inflammation, and stiffness.

While osteoarthritis can affect any joint, it most commonly develops in hands, knees, hips, neck (cervical spine) and lower back (lumbar spine). This degeneration can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life.

Types of Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis can be classified into two main types:

  • Primary Osteoarthritis: This is the most common form and develops gradually over time as a result of the natural wear and tear on your joints. It’s typically related to aging and long-term use of joints throughout life.
  • Secondary Osteoarthritis: This type arises due to specific damage to a joint, such as from injuries, trauma, or other underlying conditions. For instance, other forms of arthritis or joint damage can weaken the cartilage, leading to osteoarthritis.

Each type requires appropriate management to alleviate symptoms and maintain joint health.

Osteoarthritis is indeed very common, particularly in older adults. Experts estimate that over 80% of adults older than 55 have some degree of osteoarthritis, although not all of them experience noticeable symptoms.

Approximately 60% of people with osteoarthritis do experience symptoms such as joint pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. These symptoms vary in severity and can impact daily activities, especially as the condition progresses.

Osteoarthritis Symptoms

The most common symptoms of osteoarthritis include:

  • Pain in a joint (especially when moving it), which can vary from mild to severe and often worsens with activity.
  • Stiffness, particularly after periods of inactivity or first thing in the morning.
  • Swelling near a joint, which may result from inflammation or the buildup of fluid.
  • Decreased range of motion, making it harder to move the joint through its full movement.
  • Instability or weakness in the joint, making it feel less stable or reliable.
  • Joint deformity, where the affected joint may look visibly different due to bone changes or tissue damage over time.

Osteoarthritis Causes

Experts are still uncertain about the exact causes of osteoarthritis, but several contributing factors have been identified. Primary osteoarthritis typically develops gradually with age due to the natural wear and tear of joints over time, leading to the breakdown of cartilage.

Secondary osteoarthritis, on the other hand, can result from direct damage to the joints, such as:

  • Sports injuries.
  • Falls or accidents.
  • Car accidents.
  • Health conditions affecting the joints, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or joint hypermobility syndrome.

Additionally, some other forms of arthritis, specifically inflammatory arthritis, can also lead to osteoarthritis, including:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Gout.
  • Psoriatic arthritis.

Osteoarthritis Treatment

When managing osteoarthritis, healthcare providers typically focus on relieving symptoms since there’s no cure and cartilage can’t regrow in affected joints. Here are the most common treatments:

  • Medication: Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs, can reduce pain and inflammation. Topical creams, ointments, or patches applied to the skin near affected joints are also options.
  • Exercise: Engaging in low-impact activities, like swimming, water aerobics, and weight training, can alleviate stiffness, improve joint mobility, and strengthen muscles around the joints. A physical therapist may guide you in safe and effective exercises.
  • Supportive Devices: Wearing shoe inserts, braces, or using mobility aids like canes or walkers can help stabilize joints, alleviate pressure, and reduce discomfort.
  • Heat and Cold Therapy: Alternating between heating pads and cold compresses can ease pain and stiffness. Your provider will advise on appropriate usage times.
  • Complementary Therapy: Acupuncture, massage, meditation, tai chi, and dietary supplements may help alongside conventional treatments. Always consult your provider before starting any new supplement or alternative therapies.
  • Surgery: In severe cases, joint replacement surgery (arthroplasty) may be recommended when other treatments are ineffective.

These treatments aim to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life for individuals with osteoarthritis.

When to seek help from an Orthopedic?

It’s essential to consult an orthopaedic as soon as you notice any signs of osteoarthritis, even if the pain seems minor. Early treatment can prevent further joint damage, even though cartilage degeneration cannot be reversed. Here’s why early attention is crucial:

  • Early intervention: Treatment can help slow down the progression of osteoarthritis, reducing the impact on your joints and managing symptoms more effectively.
  • Monitoring symptoms: If you notice that your symptoms worsen or become more frequent, it's important to speak with your healthcare provider. They may suggest adjusting your current treatment plan or exploring new options.
  • Preventing further damage: By addressing joint pain early, you can protect your remaining cartilage and slow down the overall degeneration process.

Regular follow-ups and adjustments to your treatment are key to maintaining joint health and quality of life.

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