Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. This degenerative joint condition can significantly impact your quality of life, making normal, everyday activities challenging. Understanding the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis and knowing when to seek medical care can help you manage this condition effectively.
What Is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions your joints wears down over time. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling, most commonly in weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine. Osteoarthritis can also sometimes affect the hands and fingers. While age is a significant risk factor, osteoarthritis can affect people of any age. Other factors such as joint injuries, obesity, genetics, and repetitive stress on joints can also increase your risk.
Common Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms of osteoarthritis typically will develop gradually and worsen over time. Some key signs to watch for include:
Joint Pain: Pain in the affected joints is often the earliest sign. The discomfort may be more noticeable after physical activity or toward the end of the day.
Stiffness: Joints may feel stiff, especially in the morning or after long periods of inactivity. This stiffness usually improves with movement.
Swelling: Inflammation in the joint can lead to swelling, which may cause additional discomfort and limited range of motion.
Decreased Mobility: You may notice difficulty moving the joint through its full range of motion, making activities like bending, lifting, or walking challenging.
Grating Sensation: You might feel or hear a grinding sensation when using the joint, caused by the bones rubbing against each other as cartilage wears away.
Bone Spurs: In more advanced cases, small bony growth, called bone spurs, may develop around the joint, contributing to pain and stiffness.
When to Call Your Doctor
While mild joint pain or stiffness can often be managed with over-the-counter remedies, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional if your symptoms persist or worsen. You should seek medical advice if you experience:
- Persistent joint pain that doesn’t improve with rest
- Severe swelling that causes discomfort or limits mobility
- Symptoms that rapidly worsen or new ones develop
Additionally, if osteoarthritis begins to interfere with your quality of life, making it difficult to work, enjoy hobbies, or perform daily activities, it’s time to call your doctor. Early intervention can make a significant difference in managing the condition effectively.
Southwoods Health Is Here to Help
If you’re experiencing signs of osteoarthritis, the orthopedic specialists at Southwoods Health are ready to help. We offer comprehensive care, from diagnosis to personalized treatment plans, to get you back to doing the things you love. Take the first step toward managing your joint health. Schedule an appointment with Southwoods Health today!
