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

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

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.

Shoulder osteoarthritis in the glenohumeral joint can make activities such as throwing a ball or lifting objects painful. Explore treatments for Shoulder 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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