Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common joint conditions and a leading cause of pain and reduced mobility in adults. It develops gradually and may affect one or multiple joints, often interfering with daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or using the hands. While osteoarthritis is commonly associated with aging, it can also affect younger individuals depending on joint stress, prior injuries, or other risk factors.

Although osteoarthritis is a chronic condition, many people are able to manage symptoms effectively with a comprehensive and individualized approach to care.

What Is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition characterized by the gradual breakdown of cartilage, the smooth tissue that cushions the ends of bones within a joint. As cartilage wears down, joint movement may become less smooth, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced flexibility.

Unlike inflammatory or autoimmune arthritis, osteoarthritis is primarily mechanical in nature. Inflammation may occur, but it is usually secondary to cartilage damage rather than driven by immune system dysfunction.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of osteoarthritis may develop slowly and progress over time. Common symptoms include:

• Joint pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
• Stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity
• Reduced range of motion
• Joint swelling or tenderness
• Grinding or clicking sensations during movement
• Weakness or instability around the affected joint

Symptoms often vary in intensity and may fluctuate based on activity level.

What Causes Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis develops due to a combination of factors that place stress on the joints over time. These may include:

• Age-related cartilage wear
• Prior joint injuries or repetitive joint stress
• Excess body weight increasing joint load
• Joint misalignment or structural abnormalities
• Genetic predisposition
• Muscle weakness affecting joint stability

These factors can contribute differently depending on the joint involved.

How Is Osteoarthritis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging. A rheumatologist may use:

• Detailed review of symptoms and activity-related pain patterns
• Physical examination assessing joint movement and tenderness
• Imaging studies, such as X-rays, to evaluate joint space and bone changes
• Additional testing when needed to rule out inflammatory causes

Accurate diagnosis helps distinguish osteoarthritis from other forms of arthritis that may require different management.

Treatment Options for Osteoarthritis

Treatment is individualized and focuses on symptom management and joint function. Options may include:

• Activity modification and joint protection strategies
• Physical therapy to strengthen supporting muscles
• Pain-relief and anti-inflammatory approaches when appropriate
• Targeted injections for symptom relief in select cases
• Advanced therapies for patients with persistent symptoms
• Infusion-based treatments when clinically relevant

Non-pharmacologic strategies often play a central role in long-term management.

When to See a Rheumatologist

A rheumatology evaluation may be helpful if you experience:

• Persistent joint pain affecting daily activities
• Stiffness or swelling that does not improve
• Symptoms involving multiple joints
• Uncertainty about the cause of joint pain

Specialized assessment can help clarify the diagnosis and guide a tailored treatment plan.

Our Approach to Treating Osteoarthritis

Our approach emphasizes personalized care focused on symptom control, joint function, and long-term mobility. Treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s needs, activity level, and goals, with adjustments made as symptoms change over time.

For patients who may benefit from advanced or infusion-based therapies, these options are offered as part of a comprehensive care model. We prioritize coordinated, ongoing management to support quality of life.

Schedule a Consultation

If joint pain or stiffness is limiting your mobility or daily activities, scheduling a consultation can help identify the cause and explore appropriate treatment options tailored to your needs.