10/01/2026
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. It’s a condition where the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in a joint wears down over time.
What happens in osteoarthritis?
Cartilage becomes thin or damaged
Bones start to rub against each other
This causes pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced movement
Commonly affected joints
Knees
Hips
Spine
Hands (fingers, thumb)
Symptoms
Joint pain that worsens with activity
Morning stiffness (usually lasts less than 30 minutes)
Swelling around the joint
Cracking or grinding feeling when moving the joint
Reduced flexibility
Causes & risk factors
Aging
Joint injury or repeated stress
Obesity (extra weight stresses joints, especially knees)
Family history
Poor posture or joint overuse
Is it curable?
There is no complete cure, but it can be managed with:
Exercise and physiotherapy
Weight control
Pain relief medications
Joint supports
In severe cases, surgery (like joint replacement)
