Osteoarthritis

Introduction

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and primarily affects the joints of the hands, hips, and knees. As people age, the cartilage that cushions the joints gradually breaks down, and changes occur in the underlying bone. These changes usually develop slowly and worsen over time.
Osteoarthritis can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling, and in some cases may lead to disability, making it difficult for affected individuals to perform daily activities or continue working.

---

Causes

With aging, the cartilage that lines the joints and allows smooth movement gradually wears away. This slow degeneration causes the bones within the joint to rub against each other, leading to pain and swelling during movement.
Fragments of worn cartilage may also break off and interfere with joint movement, further increasing pain, swelling, and stiffness.

---

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis, including:

• Older age, due to prolonged use of joints

• Female sex, as women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis, especially after the age of 50

• Family history of osteoarthritis

• Overweight and obesity, which increase stress on weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine

• Joint injuries, including previously damaged joints or those treated with steroid injections

• Occupations requiring repetitive movements, which place continuous stress on the joints

---

Symptoms

Symptoms usually develop slowly and often begin in a single joint. They include:

• Joint pain during use that improves with rest; in later stages, pain may worsen at night

• Joint stiffness, typically lasting less than 30 minutes in the morning or after periods of rest

• Swelling in and around the joint, especially after excessive use

• Reduced range of motion

• A feeling of joint instability

• Grinding or clicking sounds during joint movement

As symptoms worsen over time, daily activities such as climbing stairs may become difficult. Chronic pain may also lead to fatigue, sleep disturbances, and depression.

---

When to See a Doctor

You should consult a doctor if you experience:

• Persistent joint pain, stiffness, or swelling in one or more joints

There are many types of arthritis, and it is possible to have more than one type at the same time.

---

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made by a physician based on medical history and physical examination. Diagnostic tests may include:

• X-rays of the affected joint

• Blood tests to rule out other types of arthritis

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) when needed

• Joint fluid analysis to exclude other causes of joint pain such as infection or gout

---

Treatment

The goals of osteoarthritis treatment include:

• Relieving pain and other symptoms

• Improving joint function

• Preventing disease progression

• Maintaining quality of life

Treatment options may include:

• Exercise, which helps reduce pain and stiffness while improving flexibility and muscle strength. Exercise programs should be discussed with a healthcare professional and started gradually

• Weight loss, to reduce stress on the joints, relieve pain, and improve mobility

• Assistive devices, such as braces or canes

• Medications, to help control pain and inflammation

• Surgery, which may be recommended if other treatments fail to relieve symptoms

---

Disease Progression

Although many people with osteoarthritis may have mild or no symptoms, progressive joint failure can eventually lead to pain and disability.
Patients with chronic osteoarthritis, especially of the lower limb joints, who are physically inactive have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Obesity and vitamin D deficiency may contribute to faster disease progression.

---

Prevention

There is no guaranteed way to prevent osteoarthritis, but risk factors can be managed by:

• Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet

• Staying physically active

• Quitting smoking

• Protecting joints from injury through appropriate exercises

• Ensuring a safe work environment that minimizes fall risks and matches physical abilities

Seek medical attention immediately if a joint becomes swollen, warm, or red, as this may indicate an infection.

---

Osteoarthritis and Physical Activity

For individuals with osteoarthritis, participating in moderate and appropriate physical activity such as walking, cycling, and swimming can improve pain, joint function, mood, and overall quality of life.
Regular physical activity can also delay arthritis-related disability and help manage other chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.

---

How Much Physical Activity Do You Need?

Stay as active as your health allows, and adjust your activity level based on your symptoms. Even small amounts of physical activity are better than none.

---

Tips for Exercising Safely with Osteoarthritis

• Start slowly and progress gradually while monitoring how your body responds

• Begin with short sessions (3–5 minutes twice daily) and gradually increase duration

• Modify activities during symptom flare-ups while remaining as active as possible

• Choose low-impact exercises that are gentle on the joints, such as walking, cycling, water exercises, or yoga

• Exercise in safe, well-lit areas with even surfaces

• Consult a healthcare professional to determine suitable activities based on your abilities and health goals

---

Tips to Reduce Pain During or After Exercise

It is normal to experience mild pain or stiffness when starting a new exercise program. Joints may take 6–8 weeks to adapt, and continued activity often leads to long-term pain reduction.
If pain occurs:

• Reduce the frequency or duration of exercise

• Try alternative low-impact activities

• Seek medical advice if you experience:

  • Severe or persistent joint pain

  • Pain causing limping

  • Pain lasting more than two hours after exercise or worsening at night

  • Swelling or redness that does not improve with rest, medication, or hot/cold compresses

---

Common Misconceptions

Myth: People with osteoarthritis cannot live a healthy life.
Fact: Individuals with osteoarthritis can live healthy and active lives by following medical advice and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.