Overview
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. It involves gradual changes in the cartilage and bone of a joint, and often affects the knees, hips, hands and spine.
Osteoarthritis is managed with exercise, weight management, activity changes, medication and, for some people, injections or procedures. Treatment is tailored to the joints involved and your goals.
Watch: Osteoarthritis explained
Video: “What is Osteoarthritis? (HSS)” from Hospital for Special Surgery on YouTube. It loads from youtube-nocookie.com only when you press play. Shown for general education; GSMC did not produce it. Watch on YouTube
Common symptoms
- Joint pain with activity
- Stiffness after rest
- Swelling
- Reduced flexibility
- Bony enlargement in finger joints
Causes and risk factors
- Age
- Previous joint injury
- Excess body weight
- Genetics
- Repetitive joint stress
How it is diagnosed
Your clinician will review your history, examine the joint and may order X-rays, ultrasound, MRI or blood tests to look for inflammation or other causes.
Treatment options
Care is stepped: most people start with self-care and physical therapy, and move to the next step only if pain continues. Some problems, such as nerve weakness, may skip ahead. Your exam, imaging and goals decide which options fit you.
Self-care and lifestyle
Exercise is a core treatment for osteoarthritis. Walking, tai chi or water exercise and weight management may help.
Physical therapy and medications
Physical therapy and medicines such as topical or oral anti-inflammatories if safe for you.
Injections and nerve blocks
Joint injections, or facet injections for spinal arthritis.
Minimally invasive procedures
Radiofrequency ablation for selected knee or spine arthritis pain; PRP is an evolving, usually self-pay option.
Surgical evaluation
Orthopaedic or spine surgical evaluation for advanced joint damage or nerve compression.
Learn how we approach care: our care philosophy · nonsurgical options · second opinions.
When to seek urgent care
Seek prompt care for a hot, red, swollen joint with fever, inability to bear weight after an injury, sudden severe symptoms, or any symptom that worries you.
Frequently asked questions
Is osteoarthritis just wear and tear?
It is more complex than that. It involves the whole joint, including cartilage, bone and the joint lining.
Can osteoarthritis affect my spine?
Yes. Osteoarthritis of the facet joints is a common cause of neck and back pain.
What is the most helpful thing I can do?
Regular exercise and strengthening are among the most consistently recommended treatments.
This page is general patient education and does not replace advice from your own clinician. Individual results vary.