Symptoms and Effects of Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a common joint condition that occurs when the tissues inside a joint gradually become damaged over time. It often affects the knees, hips, hands, spine, and other joints that are frequently used. The condition can develop slowly and may become more noticeable as a person gets older, although younger people can also develop osteoarthritis, especially after a previous joint injury.
One of the most common symptoms is joint pain. The pain may become worse during activities such as walking, climbing stairs, standing for long periods, or carrying heavy objects. Some people also experience stiffness, particularly after waking up or after sitting or resting for a long time. The joint may feel uncomfortable when it is moved, and its range of motion can gradually become limited.
The image shows several people experiencing discomfort in different parts of the body, along with an illustration of a damaged knee joint. Other possible symptoms of osteoarthritis include swelling around the joint, tenderness, a feeling of weakness, and clicking or grinding sensations when the joint moves. In more advanced cases, the joint may change shape or become increasingly difficult to use.
