What is Osteoarthritis
and How is it Treated?

Osteoarthritis is the most common and well-known type of arthritis and affects approximately 30 million people in the United States. Typically a form of wear-and-tear arthritis, osteoarthritis happens as a result of overuse of a joint over a long period of time. As this condition progresses, the smooth, rubbery connective tissue on the end of bones that cushion the joint, helping bones move smoothly, wears down until the bones are painfully rubbing against one another. 

Are you suffering from symptoms of osteoarthritis? Take the first step to finding relief from your pain with our free interactive assessment.

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How Do I Know if I Have Osteoarthritis?

Symptoms of osteoarthritis tend to develop very slowly, so it’s important to pay attention if symptoms have been getting worse over time. 

Common Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

As osteoarthritis develops, so may the following symptoms:

  • Joint stiffness that is worse in the morning
  • Limited range of motion
  • Joint tenderness
  • A sensation of bones rubbing together when moving the joint
  • Cracking sound when moving the affected joint
  • Weakness
  • Joints lock or “give out”
  • Sharp pain during or after movement
What Causes Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is most commonly an age-related condition caused by the breakdown of cartilage, however, there are many risk factors that influence this degeneration, including:

  •  Age — most common in people over 65 years of age. 
  • Obesity — the extra weight place excessive stress on the joints. 
  • Diabetes — high glucose level can increase the stiffness of joints. 
  • Trauma — athletes who’ve suffered from a torn ACL are more likely to develop OA. 
  • Repetitive movement — whether due to occupation, sports, or hobbies, repeating the same motion continuously without adequate recovery time can wear down cartilage. 

If you are experiencing symptoms associated with osteoarthritis, find out more about your condition with our interactive condition assessment tool.

How is Osteoarthritis Treated?

Although osteoarthritis cannot be cured, early diagnosis and treatment can help maintain joint mobility, relieve pain and improve function form those suffering from the painful symptoms associated with the condition.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Osteoarthritis

Early, nonsurgical treatment can help maintain joint mobility, improve strength, and relieve pain. Most treatment programs combine lifestyle modifications, medication, and physical therapy.

Common non-surgical treatments for osteoarthritis include:

  • Epidural injection
  • Occupational therapy
  • Over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Physical therapy
  • Rest and joint care
  • Stretching exercises
  • Strength training
Surgical Treatments for Osteoarthritis

If early treatments do not stop the pain or if they lose their effectiveness, surgery may be considered. Surgical options for osteoarthritis include:


If you are suffering from painful symptoms associated with osteoarthritis and are ready to take the next step, try our interactive treatment finder below to find right treatment for you.

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