10/04/2026
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis. It is a degenerative joint condition in which the protective cartilage at the ends of bones gradually wears down over time.
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🔍 What happens in Osteoarthritis?
Cartilage becomes thin and damaged
Bones start rubbing against each other
Leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced movement
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📍 Commonly affected joints
Knees
Hips
Spine (neck & lower back)
Hands (fingers, thumb joint)
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⚠️ Causes / Risk Factors
Aging (most common)
Joint overuse or repetitive stress
Previous injury (trauma, sports injury)
Obesity (extra load on joints)
Genetics (family history)
Poor posture / biomechanics
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🚨 Symptoms
Joint pain (worse with activity)
Morning stiffness (usually < 30 minutes)
Swelling around joint
Reduced range of motion
Crepitus (grinding sound)
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🧪 Diagnosis
Clinical examination
X-ray (shows joint space narrowing, osteophytes)
MRI (in early cases if needed)
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💊 Treatment
1. Non-Surgical (Most Important)
Physiotherapy (very effective)
Strengthening exercises
Range of motion exercises
Posture correction
Weight reduction
Activity modification
Hot/cold therapy
2. Medications
Painkillers (e.g., Paracetamol)
NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen)
3. Advanced Options
Injections (steroids, hyaluronic acid)
Surgery (joint replacement in severe cases)
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🏃♂️ Best Exercises for OA
Quadriceps strengthening (for knee OA)
Stretching exercises
Low-impact activities (walking, swimming, cycling)
