Osteoarthritis
Body System: Musculoskeletal System | Area Affected: Joints (commonly knees, hips, spine, hands, feet)
Doctor to Consult: Rheumatologist, Orthopedic Surgeon, Primary Care Physician, Physical Therapist
What It Is
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that results from the breakdown of joint cartilage and underlying bone. It is the most common form of arthritis, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling primarily in weight-bearing joints and hands. Over time, the cartilage, which provides a smooth, gliding surface for joint movement, wears away, leading to bone-on-bone friction and the formation of bone spurs.
Why It Happens
Osteoarthritis primarily occurs due to the gradual 'wear and tear' on the joints over time. This process leads to the breakdown of cartilage, the slippery tissue that covers the ends of bones in a joint and allows them to glide smoothly. As cartilage deteriorates, the bones rub directly against each other, causing pain, inflammation, and damage to the joint structure. Factors like aging, joint injury, obesity, and genetics can accelerate this process.
Who Gets It / Risk Factors
Risk Factors
Age (risk increases with age, especially over 50)
Obesity (puts extra stress on weight-bearing joints)
Previous joint injury or trauma
Repetitive stress on a joint (due to certain occupations or sports)
Genetics (family history of OA)
Female sex (more common in women, especially after menopause)
Bone deformities (being born with malformed joints)
When to Seek Emergency Care
Sudden, severe joint pain accompanied by fever and chills (could indicate an infection)
Sudden inability to move a joint or bear weight
Severe, unexplained swelling or redness that spreads rapidly
Signs of a blood clot (e.g., severe calf pain, swelling, redness, warmth, especially after surgery)
Any symptoms that suggest a fracture or dislocation (e.g., severe pain, deformity, inability to move)
Medical Overview
A professional summary of diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Joint pain (often worsens with activity and improves with rest)
Joint stiffness (especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity)
Loss of flexibility (reduced range of motion in the joint)
Grating sensation or 'crepitus' when moving the joint
Swelling around the joint
Tenderness when pressing on the joint
Bone spurs (hard lumps that can form around the affected joint)
Scientific References
This content is based on established clinical guidelines and public health resources from the following authoritative sources.
Medically Reviewed for Accuracy
Medical Advisory Board
•Last reviewed: March 20, 2026Content is aligned with established clinical guidelines from authoritative medical institutions, including MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine), the CDC, the NIH, and the NHS. All content is reviewed by our medical advisory board for accuracy and safety.