Osteoarthritis is a type of degenerative arthritis that occurs when the cartilage that acts as padding between the joints breaks down. Osteoarthritis is characterized by pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joint that is worse after periods of inactivity.

Treatment for osteoarthritis begins with a combination of physical therapy for exercises for arthritis and medication to control pain. In late stages of the disease, surgery is also a possibility.

Choose from the topics below for peer reviewed articles on osteoarthritis symptoms and treatments

Tibia (shin bone), femur (thigh bone), and patella (kneecap). cartilage damage, and bone spurs labeled in the knee joint.
Article

What Is Knee Osteoarthritis?

Knee osteoarthritis can affect daily activities. Changes in the knee’s cartilage, bone, and other soft tissues can lead to pain and stiffness.

Cross section of the knee showing degenerated cartilage
Article

What Is Osteoarthritis?

Joint pain may be a sign of osteoarthritis. Learn how the breakdown of cartilage, underlying bone, and other soft tissues can lead to pain and stiffness in the hands, knees, hips, and other joints.

Illustrated skeletal view of the shoulder. Osteophytes in the shoulder joint are highlighted in red indicating pain
Article

What Is Shoulder Osteoarthritis?

Shoulder osteoarthritis in the glenohumeral joint can make activities such as throwing a ball or lifting objects painful. Explore treatments for Shoulder Osteoarthritis.
Medical illustration showing the normal and arthritic bones of the hand
Article

When Hand Pain Is Osteoarthritis

Painful, stiff hands can be a sign of osteoarthritis. It occurs when the cartilage between the small bones of the knuckle and wrist joints deteriorates.
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