Here’s a detailed overview of osteoarthritis (OA) signs and symptoms. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease where cartilage wears down over time, causing pain and stiffness.
Common Signs & Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
1. Joint pain
- Pain is the most common symptom.
- Usually worsens with activity and improves with rest.
2. Stiffness
- Often occurs after periods of inactivity, such as in the morning (“morning stiffness”), usually lasting less than 30 minutes.
3. Swelling
- Mild swelling or joint tenderness may be present.
- Can be more noticeable in fingers, knees, or hips.
4. Loss of flexibility
- Decreased range of motion in affected joints.
- Difficulty performing daily tasks (bending, reaching, walking).
5. Grating sensation or “crepitus”
- Feeling or hearing a grating, crackling, or popping sound when moving the joint.
6. Bone spurs (osteophytes)
- Hard lumps may form around the joint.
- Common in fingers and knees.
7. Joint deformity
- In advanced OA, joints may appear misshapen or enlarged.
8. Tenderness
- The joint may feel tender when pressure is applied.
9. Intermittent swelling or fluid buildup
- Particularly in the knee (effusion), causing a feeling of fullness.
10. Weakness or instability
- Muscles around the joint may weaken due to pain and disuse.
- Joints may “give way” or feel unstable.
Key Notes
- OA is usually gradual; symptoms develop over years.
- Weight-bearing joints (knees, hips, spine) are most commonly affected.
- Pain and stiffness worsen with age and activity, but improve with gentle movement.
If you want, I can make a quick table showing early vs late osteoarthritis symptoms so it’s easier to spot progression.
Do you want me to do that?
