Osteoarthritis

With osteoarthritis, the protective cartilage, the smooth tissue that cushions the ends of bones, wears down.

When cartilage breaks down: 

• Bones can rub together  
• Joints become painful and stiff  
• Movement becomes harder over time  

Osteoarthritis most often affects: 

• Knees  
• Hips  
• Hands  
• Spine  

What Are the Symptoms of Osteoarthritis?  

Common symptoms include: 

• Joint pain during or after movement 
• Stiffness, especially in the morning or after rest 
• Swelling around the joint 
• Reduced flexibility or range of motion 
• A “grating” or “crunching” feeling in the joint 

Symptoms often develop slowly and worsen over time. More advanced symptoms can include: 

• Ongoing pain even at rest 
• Difficulty walking, gripping objects, or climbing stairs 
• Joint changes in shape or alignment

What Causes Osteoarthritis? 

Osteoarthritis develops when joint wear and tear outpaces the body’s ability to repair cartilage. It is not caused by one single factor and usually develops from a combination of risks over time. 

Common risk factors include: 

• Aging 
• Joint injury (sports injuries, fractures) 
• Repetitive joint use (work or athletics) 
• Obesity or extra body weight 
• Family history of osteoarthritis 

Is Osteoarthritis Preventable? 

Not entirely, with age and genetics involved. However, healthy lifestyle habits can help improve or maintain the health of your joints, reduce your risk of developing the condition later on, and help it from getting worse if you are diagnosed. These include: 

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Keep blood sugar regulated—high blood sugar can raise your risk
• Exercise daily to build strength and prevent stiffness
• Protect joints from injury by gently warming up and varying your exercises
• Take pain seriously—take breaks, rest what hurts, and get assessed by a physical therapist

How is Osteoarthritis Diagnosed?  

Diagnosis is based on symptoms, physical examination, and imaging. 

Evaluation may include: 

• Medical history and symptom review 
• Physical exam of affected joints
• X-rays to look for joint space narrowing or bone changes 
• MRI scans in select cases 
• Lab tests to rule out other types of arthritis 
• Bone density test (DEXA scan) to measure bone strength and identify bone loss before fractures happen.

Specialists at University of Rochester Medicine work together to confirm the diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan.