Osteoarthritis

Symptoms & Causes Diagnosis & Treatment Doctors

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of degenerative joint disease, affecting millions globally. This condition occurs when the cartilage, which cushions the ends of bones, gradually breaks down. While osteoarthritis can affect any joint, it most commonly targets weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, spine, and hands.

Although osteoarthritis is irreversible, its symptoms can be managed effectively with proper medical care, lifestyle changes, and rehabilitation. Staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and seeking appropriate medical treatment are key to slowing its progression and improving joint mobility.

Orthopaedic surgeons and rheumatologists play a central role in managing osteoarthritis, offering treatments ranging from medication to joint replacement surgeries.

What Causes Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis develops due to the gradual breakdown of cartilage, which allows smooth joint movement. When cartilage deteriorates, bones may begin to rub against each other, leading to pain, inflammation, and reduced joint function.

Several factors contribute to the development of osteoarthritis:

Ageing: The natural wear and tear of joints over time increases the likelihood of cartilage breakdown.
Obesity: Excess body weight places additional stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips. Fat tissue also produces proteins that can trigger inflammation around joints.
Joint Injuries: Previous injuries, whether from sports or accidents, can predispose individuals to osteoarthritis, even if the injury occurred years ago.
Repetitive Stress: Jobs or activities that involve repetitive joint movements can accelerate cartilage wear.
Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis may increase the risk of developing the condition.
Bone Deformities: Congenital abnormalities in joint structure or cartilage can lead to early-onset osteoarthritis.
Metabolic Disorders: Conditions like diabetes or hemochromatosis (excess iron in the body) can contribute to joint degeneration.

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

The symptoms of osteoarthritis develop gradually and worsen over time. The most common signs include:

Joint Pain: Pain during or after movement is a hallmark symptom.
Stiffness: Stiffness is often most noticeable in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
Tenderness: Light pressure on or near the affected joint may cause discomfort.
Loss of Flexibility: The joint may lose its full range of motion, making certain movements difficult.
Grating Sensation: You may feel or hear a grating, popping, or crackling sound when using the joint.
Bone Spurs: These hard lumps, formed by extra bone growth, can develop around the affected joint.
Swelling: Inflammation of the soft tissues surrounding the joint can lead to noticeable swelling.

Osteoarthritis in Specific Joints

Osteoarthritis symptoms can vary depending on which joint is affected:

Spine: In spinal osteoarthritis, the narrowing of discs between the vertebrae and the formation of bone spurs can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced flexibility in the neck or back.

Hips: In osteoarthritis of the hip joint, pain typically radiates to the groin, thigh, or buttocks and may limit basic movements like walking, squatting, or climbing stairs.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you experience persistent joint pain, stiffness, or swelling that interferes with your daily activities, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and intervention can help manage symptoms and slow down the progression of osteoarthritis.

At Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC), our multidisciplinary team of specialists, including orthopaedic surgeons, rheumatologists, and neurologists, are equipped to provide comprehensive care for osteoarthritis and other joint conditions. If your osteoarthritis is linked to a neurological condition, our team ensures seamless, holistic care.

Complications of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a progressive condition that can lead to significant mobility limitations and chronic pain. Over time, it can make everyday tasks, such as walking, climbing stairs, or even getting in and out of chairs, increasingly challenging.

Additionally, the pain and loss of mobility may lead to emotional issues, including depression and sleep disturbances. The lack of joint movement may also cause muscle weakness and further joint damage, making rehabilitation more difficult.

FAQs About Osteoarthritis Symptoms and Causes

Early signs include mild joint pain, morning stiffness, and loss of flexibility. These symptoms may progress over time if left untreated.

Yes, osteoarthritis can cause swelling due to inflammation of the soft tissues around the joint.

There is a genetic component to osteoarthritis, and a family history may increase the likelihood of developing the condition.

Osteoarthritis most commonly affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine.

The knees and hips are weight-bearing joints that endure significant stress during activities like walking, running, and climbing stairs. Over time, this stress can lead to cartilage breakdown, making these joints more susceptible to osteoarthritis.

The stiffness, often referred to as “gelling”, occurs because joint fluid thickens during periods of inactivity, causing tightness. Movement helps restore fluid flow and reduces stiffness.

Osteoarthritis can cause changes in joint alignment due to cartilage loss and bone remodelling, leading to visible deformities like bowing of the legs in knee osteoarthritis.

Yes, osteoarthritis progression can vary depending on factors like age, obesity, previous joint injuries, and genetic predisposition. Individuals with these risk factors may experience faster progression.