Osteoarthritis Symptoms: Pain, Stiffness & More - Causes & Relief

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that affects the cartilage, the tissue that cushions the ends of bones where they meet to form a joint. OA can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and decreased range of motion in the affected joint.

Common symptoms of osteoarthritis include:

* Pain: OA pain can be mild, moderate, or severe. It may come and go, or it may be constant. OA pain is often worse with activity and better with rest.

* Stiffness: OA can cause stiffness in the affected joint, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.

* Swelling: OA can cause swelling in the affected joint.

* Decreased range of motion: OA can limit the range of motion in the affected joint.

* Cracking or grinding sound: OA can cause a cracking or grinding sound when the affected joint is moved.

* Bone spurs: OA can cause bone spurs to form around the affected joint. Bone spurs are bony growths that can irritate the surrounding tissues and cause pain.

* Muscle weakness: OA can cause weakness in the muscles around the affected joint.

* Fatigue: OA can cause fatigue.

OA can affect any joint in the body, but the joints that are most commonly affected include:

* Knees

* Hips

* Hands

* Spine

* Feet

OA is a progressive disease, which means that it gets worse over time. However, there are a number of treatments available that can help to slow the progression of the disease and relieve symptoms.