--- title: "Osteoarthritis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment | infoMD" description: "Osteoarthritis causes joint pain during or after movement. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and how to manage osteoarthritis with guidance fr" lang: en json-ld: | [ { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "MedicalCondition", "name": "Osteoarthritis", "alternateName": [ "OA", "Degenerative Joint Disease", "Wear-and-Tear Arthritis" ], "description": "Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, occurring when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones gradually wears down over time. This causes pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, most often in the knees, hips, hands, and spine.", "associatedAnatomy": { "@type": "AnatomicalSystem", "name": "Musculoskeletal" }, "signOrSymptom": [ { "@type": "MedicalSignOrSymptom", "name": "Joint pain during or after movement" }, { "@type": "MedicalSignOrSymptom", "name": "Joint stiffness after rest" }, { "@type": "MedicalSignOrSymptom", "name": "Loss of flexibility" }, { "@type": "MedicalSignOrSymptom", "name": "Grating sensation in joint" }, { "@type": "MedicalSignOrSymptom", "name": "Bone spurs" } ], "possibleTreatment": [ { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Regular low-impact exercise such as walking, swimming, or cycling" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on joints" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Physical therapy to strengthen muscles around affected joints" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Using assistive devices like canes or braces for support" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Applying heat to relax muscles and cold to reduce swelling" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Modifying activities to avoid movements that worsen pain" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Acetaminophen (Tylenol) for mild to moderate pain" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen for pain and inflammation" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Topical NSAIDs (creams or gels applied to the joint)" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Duloxetine (Cymbalta), an antidepressant that also helps OA pain" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Corticosteroid injections for temporary relief of severe pain" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Hyaluronic acid injections to supplement joint fluid" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Arthroscopy to remove loose cartilage or bone fragments" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Osteotomy - realigning bones to shift weight away from damaged area" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Total joint replacement (arthroplasty) for severely damaged joints" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Joint fusion (arthrodesis) for joints where replacement isn't feasible" } ], "riskFactor": [ { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Age over 50" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Female sex (more common in women after menopause)" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Obesity or being overweight" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Previous joint injuries" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Repetitive occupational joint stress" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Family history of osteoarthritis" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Bone deformities or malformed cartilage" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Certain metabolic diseases like diabetes or hemochromatosis" } ], "typicalTest": "Physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies" }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease caused by wear and tear on joint cartilage, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the joint lining. OA typically affects one side of the body and develops gradually, while RA usually affects joints symmetrically and can come on more suddenly. RA also causes systemic symptoms like fatigue and fever, which OA typically does not." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can osteoarthritis be reversed?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Currently, there is no way to reverse osteoarthritis or regrow lost cartilage. However, treatments can significantly slow progression, reduce pain, and maintain joint function. Weight loss, exercise, and early intervention are key to preserving joint health. Research into cartilage regeneration and stem cell therapies is ongoing." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Does cracking your knuckles cause osteoarthritis?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "No. Multiple studies have found no link between habitual knuckle cracking and the development of osteoarthritis. The popping sound comes from gas bubbles collapsing in the joint fluid, not from damage to the cartilage. However, excessive cracking could potentially lead to reduced grip strength over time." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is exercise safe with osteoarthritis?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes - exercise is one of the most effective treatments for osteoarthritis. Regular physical activity strengthens muscles around joints, improves flexibility, reduces pain, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, cycling, and tai chi are particularly beneficial. Avoid high-impact activities that jar the joints, and start gradually if you're new to exercise." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "When is joint replacement surgery necessary?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Joint replacement is typically considered when conservative treatments no longer provide adequate pain relief and the condition significantly limits daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, or sleeping. Most people who have joint replacement surgery experience dramatic improvement in pain and function. The decision is made jointly between you and your orthopedic surgeon based on your symptoms, imaging results, and quality of life." } } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://infomd.com" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Conditions", "item": "https://infomd.com/conditions" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Musculoskeletal", "item": "https://infomd.com/conditions/body-system/musculoskeletal" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 4, "name": "Osteoarthritis", "item": "https://infomd.com/conditions/osteoarthritis" } ] } ] --- [Skip to main content](#main-content) [![infoMD](/assets/infomd-logo-CtvTblFD.png)](/) [Home](/) [Conditions](/conditions) [Glossary](/glossary)[Shop](/shop) 1. [Home](/) 2. [Conditions](/conditions) 3. [Musculoskeletal](/conditions/body-system/musculoskeletal) 4. Osteoarthritis Musculoskeletal [Inflammation](/topics/inflammation)[Pain Management](/topics/pain-management) # Osteoarthritis Also known as: OA, Degenerative Joint Disease, Wear-and-Tear Arthritis infoMD Editorial Team January 20, 2025 8 min read Share: [](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfomd.com%2Fconditions%2Fosteoarthritis)[](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfomd.com%2Fconditions%2Fosteoarthritis&text=Osteoarthritis) ### Quick Facts Type Chronic Affects Adults over 50, women more than men, and those with previous joint injuries Prevalence Over 32.5 million American adults have osteoarthritis Treatable Manageable with exercise, weight management, pain medication, and joint replacement in severe cases See a Specialist Rheumatologist or Orthopedic Surgeon ICD-10 Code M15-M19 ## Overview Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people around the world. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones gradually wears down over time. While it can damage any joint, osteoarthritis most commonly affects joints in the knees, hips, hands, and spine. Unlike rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune condition, osteoarthritis is primarily a degenerative disease driven by mechanical wear, aging, and metabolic factors. The cartilage breakdown leads to bone rubbing against bone, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. Over time, pieces of bone or cartilage may chip off and float in the joint space, causing further irritation. Osteoarthritis develops slowly and tends to worsen over years. While there is no cure, many effective treatments are available to slow its progression, reduce pain, and maintain joint function. Staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and following your treatment plan are the cornerstones of living well with osteoarthritis. ## Symptoms Recognizing the symptoms of osteoarthritis early can lead to faster diagnosis and better outcomes. ### Early Symptoms - Joint pain during or after movement - Joint stiffness upon waking or after sitting for a while - Tenderness when light pressure is applied to the joint - Mild swelling around the joint - Reduced range of motion ### Advanced Symptoms - Grating or crackling sensation (crepitus) during joint movement - Bone spurs - hard lumps forming around the affected joint - Joint deformity or malalignment - Significant loss of joint function and mobility - Chronic pain that interferes with daily activities and sleep When to See a Doctor See a doctor if joint pain or stiffness persists for more than a few weeks, worsens over time, or begins interfering with your daily activities. Early diagnosis allows you to start treatments that can slow progression and protect your joints. ## Causes & Risk Factors ### Common Causes - Natural wear and tear of joint cartilage over time - Previous joint injury or surgery - Repetitive stress on a joint from occupation or sports - Genetic predisposition affecting cartilage structure - Obesity placing excess stress on weight-bearing joints - Metabolic disorders affecting cartilage health ### Risk Factors - Age over 50 - Female sex (more common in women after menopause) - Obesity or being overweight - Previous joint injuries - Repetitive occupational joint stress - Family history of osteoarthritis - Bone deformities or malformed cartilage - Certain metabolic diseases like diabetes or hemochromatosis ## How It's Diagnosed Doctors diagnose osteoarthritis through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging studies. During the exam, your doctor will check affected joints for tenderness, swelling, redness, warmth, and range of motion. They may also listen for crepitus - a grating sound when the joint moves. X-rays are the most common imaging tool and can reveal cartilage loss shown by narrowing of the joint space, bone spurs, and other changes. MRI may be ordered for more detailed images of cartilage and soft tissues. Blood tests aren't needed to diagnose osteoarthritis but may be done to rule out other conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Joint fluid analysis can help distinguish osteoarthritis from gout or infection. ## Treatment Options ### Lifestyle Changes - Regular low-impact exercise such as walking, swimming, or cycling - Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on joints - Physical therapy to strengthen muscles around affected joints - Using assistive devices like canes or braces for support - Applying heat to relax muscles and cold to reduce swelling - Modifying activities to avoid movements that worsen pain ### Medications - Acetaminophen (Tylenol) for mild to moderate pain - NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen for pain and inflammation - Topical NSAIDs (creams or gels applied to the joint) - Duloxetine (Cymbalta), an antidepressant that also helps OA pain - Corticosteroid injections for temporary relief of severe pain - Hyaluronic acid injections to supplement joint fluid ### Medical Procedures - Arthroscopy to remove loose cartilage or bone fragments - Osteotomy - realigning bones to shift weight away from damaged area - Total joint replacement (arthroplasty) for severely damaged joints - Joint fusion (arthrodesis) for joints where replacement isn't feasible ### Complementary Approaches - Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements (evidence is mixed) - Acupuncture for pain relief - Tai chi and yoga to improve flexibility and balance - Massage therapy to ease muscle tension around joints ## Living With Osteoarthritis Living with osteoarthritis requires a balance between staying active and protecting your joints. Regular exercise is one of the most important things you can do - it strengthens the muscles that support your joints, improves flexibility, and helps control weight. Low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, and walking are excellent choices. Physical therapy can teach you specific exercises tailored to your affected joints. Managing pain day to day may involve a combination of medications, hot and cold therapy, and pacing your activities. Many people find that planning their most demanding tasks during times when pain is lowest helps them stay productive. Support groups, either in person or online, can provide emotional support and practical tips from others who understand the daily challenges of living with OA. ## Potential Complications - Severe joint damage requiring joint replacement surgery - Chronic pain leading to reduced mobility and disability - Sleep disturbances from nighttime pain - Depression and anxiety related to chronic pain and limited activity - Increased fall risk due to joint instability - Weight gain from reduced physical activity ## Prevention - Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on weight-bearing joints - Stay physically active with regular low-impact exercise - Protect joints from injury during sports and physical work - Strengthen muscles around your joints through targeted exercise - Practice good posture and body mechanics - Address joint injuries promptly and follow through with rehabilitation ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis? ### Can osteoarthritis be reversed? ### Does cracking your knuckles cause osteoarthritis? ### Is exercise safe with osteoarthritis? ### When is joint replacement surgery necessary? * * * ## Sources 1. Osteoarthritis. Mayo Clinic . 2. Osteoarthritis (OA). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . 3. Osteoarthritis. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases . 4. Osteoarthritis Treatment. Arthritis Foundation . Medical Disclaimer This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Reviewed By infoMD Editorial Team Last reviewed: March 12, 2025 In This Article [Overview](#overview)[Symptoms](#symptoms)[Causes & Risk Factors](#causes-risk-factors)[How It's Diagnosed](#how-it-s-diagnosed)[Treatment Options](#treatment-options)[Living With Osteoarthritis](#living-with-osteoarthritis)[Potential Complications](#potential-complications)[Prevention](#prevention)[Frequently Asked Questions](#frequently-asked-questions)[Sources](#sources) ### Quick Facts Type Chronic Affects Adults over 50, women more than men, and those with previous joint injuries Prevalence Over 32.5 million American adults have osteoarthritis Treatable Manageable with exercise, weight management, pain medication, and joint replacement in severe cases See a Specialist Rheumatologist or Orthopedic Surgeon ICD-10 Code M15-M19 Advertisement Was this page helpful? Yes No ## Related Conditions [ ### Rheumatoid Arthritis Musculoskeletal Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, causing painful swelling, joint erosion, and deformity. Unlike osteoarthritis, RA can also affect other organs including the skin, eyes, lungs, and heart. Swollen, tender joints Joint stiffness worse in mornings Fatigue and fever Chronic Learn More ](/conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis)[ ### Fibromyalgia Musculoskeletal Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness, often accompanied by sleep problems, memory issues, and mood disturbances. Researchers believe it amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way the brain processes pain signals. Widespread body pain Chronic fatigue Cognitive difficulties (fibro fog) Chronic Learn More ](/conditions/fibromyalgia) ## Related Glossary Terms [Inflammation](/glossary/inflammation)[Tendinitis](/glossary/tendinitis)[Osteoporosis](/glossary/osteoporosis) #### Explore - [Condition Library](/conditions) - [Health Glossary](/glossary) - [Shop](/shop) #### Body Systems - [Cardiovascular](/conditions/body-system/cardiovascular) - [Digestive](/conditions/body-system/digestive) - [Neurological](/conditions/body-system/neurological) - [Respiratory](/conditions/body-system/respiratory) - [Musculoskeletal](/conditions/body-system/musculoskeletal) - [Endocrine](/conditions/body-system/endocrine) - [Immune System](/conditions/body-system/immune-system) - [Mental Health](/conditions/body-system/mental-health) - [Skin](/conditions/body-system/skin) #### Company - [About infoMD](/about) - [Contact Us](/contact) - [844-357-3601](tel:+18443573601) #### Legal - [Privacy Policy](/privacy-policy) - [Terms of Use](/terms-of-use) - [Disclaimer](/disclaimer) - [Cookie Policy](/cookie-policy) - [Accessibility](/accessibility) © 2026 infoMD LLC. All rights reserved. For informational purposes only. See our [Disclaimer](/disclaimer). [About](/about)[Contact](/contact)[Privacy Policy](/privacy-policy)[Terms of Use](/terms-of-use)