Osteoarthritis is characterised by joint pain, stiffness (especially after periods of rest), swelling and tenderness. The affected joints may also have a diminished range of motion.
The symptoms may interfere with the sufferer’s ability to participate in the basic activities of daily living, such as walking around and using household utensils.
Osteoarthritis develops slowly and is most common in older people , but is also seen in the young.
Bony growths or spurs may develop on the margins of affected joints. There may be audible cracking or grating noises when the joint moves.
Osteoarthritis is associated with loss of the cartilage in a joint.
Risk factors include getting older, being overweight or obese, a history of injury or trauma to the affected joint, and participation in sports or occupations that involve repetitive stress to the affected joint . For example, osteoarthritis of the knee commonly occurs in people whose occupations involve kneeling or squatting.
Exercise is important in both the prevention and treatment of arthritis . It improves muscle strength and maintains mobility.
Overweight and obesity also affect the weight bearing joints, which become irritated and stressed by having to carry too much of a load.
Correct posture is also important in avoiding body weight to be distributed unevenly.