Osteoarthritis

Key facts

• Osteoarthritis is the most common joint condition worldwide. Cartilage cushioning the ends of bones gradually wears down, leaving the underlying bone exposed and inflamed.
• The knees, hips and hands bear the brunt of most cases; pain builds slowly and morning stiffness usually eases within 30 minutes, unlike inflammatory forms of arthritis.
• Risk rises with age, excess body weight, prior joint injury and repetitive occupational strain; women are more commonly affected, especially after menopause.
• Exercise and weight management are the most effective long-term measures; NSAIDs such as diclofenac, naproxen, meloxicam and celecoxib relieve pain when needed.

How joints are affected

The knees, hips and hands bear the brunt of most cases, though any joint can be involved. Pain typically builds slowly, a dull ache at first, deepening to sharper discomfort after activity. Morning stiffness usually eases within 30 minutes, which helps distinguish osteoarthritis from inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Swelling, a grating sensation known as crepitus, and a reduced range of motion are common as the condition progresses.

Who is at risk

Risk rises with age, excess body weight, prior joint injury and repetitive occupational strain. Women are more commonly affected, especially after menopause, when declining oestrogen may also play a role in joint health.

Managing pain and slowing the impact

Exercise remains the single most effective long-term intervention: low-impact activities such as swimming, cycling and tai chi preserve the muscle support around a joint without adding load. Weight loss where relevant can meaningfully reduce knee and hip stress.

For pain relief, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most widely used class. Options in the painkillers range include diclofenac, naproxen, meloxicam and celecoxib, a COX-2 selective agent often chosen when gastrointestinal tolerability is a concern. Piroxicam and indometacin are longer-established alternatives still in use. Topical diclofenac gel is an option for localised knee or hand pain, delivering an anti-inflammatory effect with less systemic exposure than oral tablets.

When to see a doctor

If joint pain is severe, rapidly worsening, or accompanied by significant swelling and warmth, a clinical assessment is advisable to rule out other causes and discuss further options.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.