This page summarises publicly available NHS information for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or a diagnosis. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, caused by wear and tear of the joint cartilage. It most often affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced movement — especially after rest or overuse. There's no cure, but exercise, weight management, painkillers, and in severe cases joint replacement surgery can greatly improve quality of life.
When NHS resources suggest seeing a GP
- You have joint pain that has lasted more than a few weeks.
- Joint stiffness is worse in the morning or after resting, lasting less than 30 minutes.
- Pain is affecting your sleep, work, or daily activities.
- A joint looks swollen, warm, or deformed.
- Over-the-counter painkillers are not enough to manage pain.
- You have difficulty walking or using a joint normally.
Self-care information from NHS
- Keep active — low-impact exercise like swimming, cycling, and walking protects joints.
- Lose weight if overweight — even small losses significantly reduce knee and hip pain.
- Try strengthening exercises for the muscles around affected joints.
- Use paracetamol or topical NSAID gels (like ibuprofen gel) for pain relief.
- Try hot or cold packs to ease stiffness and pain.
- Use walking aids, supportive footwear, or joint supports if recommended by a physiotherapist.
Common questions
Can osteoarthritis be reversed?
No — osteoarthritis damage can't be reversed, but symptoms can be well controlled with exercise, weight loss, and pain relief. Some people's symptoms plateau or even improve over time, even though the joint damage remains.
What's the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?
Osteoarthritis is wear-and-tear damage to cartilage, usually affecting weight-bearing joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the body attacks joint tissue, usually symmetrically and with longer morning stiffness.
When is joint replacement surgery considered?
Joint replacement is considered when osteoarthritis pain is severe, limits daily activities, and doesn't respond to other treatments. Hip and knee replacements are very successful — most people have much less pain and better movement afterwards.
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This page is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your individual situation. NorMed organises publicly available NHS information and is not affiliated with the NHS.