Patient guide
Osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease)
What osteoarthritis is, what symptoms it causes and when it is worth discussing them with an orthopaedic specialist.
Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition in which the joint cartilage is gradually damaged. It most often affects the knees and hips, the spine and the small joints of the hands.
Typical symptoms
- joint pain that gets worse with load and eases at rest
- short-lasting stiffness, especially in the morning
- crackling (crepitus) in the joint
- reduced range of movement
- periodic joint swelling
Risk factors
- age
- excess body weight
- previous joint injuries
- overload related to work or sport
- limb alignment problems
When to see an orthopaedic specialist
When joint pain persists or keeps coming back, limits your daily activities or worsens despite rest. A consultation makes it possible to assess how advanced the changes are and plan further management.
The information on this page is general and does not replace a medical consultation.