Osteoarthritis is a group of abnormalities that involves the degradation of a joint and is the most common form of arthritis. Symptoms of osteoarthritis can include joint pain, stiffness, locking and tenderness.

Treatment for osteoarthritis will include a combination of exercise, and lifestyle modifications. Depending on the severity of the pain, joint replacement surgery may be required to improve the quality of life. Pain is the main complaint of sufferers, who describe its feeling anywhere from a sharp ache to a hot burning sensation. Many have also found that cold or very humid weather increases their pain.

Osteoarthritis most commonly affects the hands, hips, knees and spine. In smaller joints, such as in the hands, bony enlargements form which limit the movement of the fingers.

Lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise and weight loss, are the main points of treatment as it has been found that those with osteoarthritis of the knee who complete moderate exercise had improved functioning and decreased pain levels.

For more information, please contact The Arthritis Society.