Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a long-term condition affecting the joints. Healthy joints are lined with smooth cartilage that cushions the bones and helps them glide easily. In osteoarthritis, this cartilage gradually thins and roughens, and the surrounding bone, ligaments and tissues may change too. This can make joints feel painful, stiff and less flexible, especially with movement.

Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disorder and a leading cause of pain and disability in older adults. It becomes more frequent with age and affects people across all regions of the world. Women are affected slightly more often than men, particularly after midlife. Younger adults can also develop it, especially after a joint injury.

The main symptoms are joint pain and stiffness. Pain often worsens with activity and eases with rest, while stiffness is common after waking or sitting still. Some people notice swelling, a grating or clicking sensation, or reduced range of movement. Symptoms can vary from day to day and may affect one or several joints.

Osteoarthritis develops as joint cartilage gradually breaks down faster than the body can repair it. There is no single cause, but several factors raise the risk. These include increasing age, being overweight, previous joint injuries, repetitive joint stress, and a family history of the condition. Joints already affected by other problems are also more vulnerable.

A doctor usually diagnoses osteoarthritis by discussing your symptoms and examining the affected joints for tenderness, swelling and movement. Imaging such as X-rays can show cartilage loss and bony changes, though findings do not always match symptom severity. Occasionally, other tests are used to rule out different types of arthritis with similar features.

There is no cure, but symptoms can often be managed well. Care usually combines staying active, strengthening exercises, physiotherapy and reaching a healthy weight to reduce joint load. Pain-relieving medication, supportive devices and lifestyle adjustments may help. When symptoms are severe and limit daily life, joint surgery, including joint replacement, may be considered by a specialist.

Osteoarthritis cannot always be prevented, but you can lower your risk and slow its progress. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on weight-bearing joints, while regular exercise keeps muscles strong and joints supported. Protecting joints from injury and avoiding excessive repetitive strain also help. Treating joint injuries promptly can reduce the chance of problems later.