Osteoarthritis
Also called: OA, Degenerative joint disease, Wear-and-tear arthritis
The most common joint disease: cartilage thins, the underlying bone thickens and bony spurs form, causing pain and stiffness — especially in knees, hips and hands.
Condition-specific references are below. Individual claims and this page have not been clinically reviewed. Read about this content.
Over 500 million people worldwide.
What happens in the body
A whole-joint disease: cartilage breakdown, subchondral bone remodelling, osteophytes and low-grade synovial inflammation.
Causes
- Mechanical load combined with ageing and genetic factors
Risk factors
- Age
- Obesity
- Previous joint injury or surgery
- Female sex
- Family history
- Joint malalignment
- Physically demanding occupations
Symptoms
- Joint pain worse with activity and later in the day
- Brief stiffness after rest (under 30 minutes)
- Crepitus (grating)
- Reduced movement
- Bony swellings (Heberden's nodes on fingers)
Diagnosis — tests and examinations
- Clinical diagnosis in people over 45 with typical symptoms
- X-ray when atypical or before surgery
Treatment
Medicines and medical treatment
- Topical NSAIDs (especially for knee and hand)
- Oral NSAIDs short-term with stomach protection
- Paracetamol has limited benefit
- Intra-articular steroid injections for flares
Operations and procedures
- Total hip or knee replacement for severe disease
- Osteotomy in younger patients
Self-care, home remedies and lifestyle
- Therapeutic exercise — strengthening and aerobic (the core treatment)
- Weight loss if overweight
- Supportive footwear, walking aids
- Heat or cold packs
Possible complications
- Chronic pain and disability
- Falls
Prevention
- Healthy weight, staying active, preventing joint injuries
Outlook
Symptoms fluctuate; many improve with exercise; joint replacement is highly effective for end-stage disease.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for persistent joint pain; urgently for a hot, swollen joint with fever.
Sources and further reading
These sources cover this condition. They have not been checked against every statement on this page.
Related conditions
Educational overview, not medical advice. Treatment varies by person and location. Consult a qualified health professional for diagnosis or care. Read our content and model notes and privacy information.