You can break this into symptoms, signs and impairment of function.

Pain develops around the osteoarthritic joint. The severity of pain and impairment depends largely on the individual. This can be influenced by expectation and state of mind. Anxiety and depression will influence pain perception. Level of satisfaction and success especially at work and home impacts on pain level and much as the personality profile.

A placebo surgery trial on osteoarthritic knee where no corrective surgery occurred produced significant improvement on pain level and functional impairment. Expectation was responsible for the improvement.

Crepitus (grating noise) is present in osteoarthritis. You can hear the noise as the joint is moved. Bony enlargement can occur and often the joint looks mis-shapened. Restricted movement is not uncommon. The joint may feel warm or swollen (effusion) following synovitis. Weakening of supporting muscles and wasting can follow.

Remember osteoarthritis is not only due to wear and tear. There may be other underlying problems associated wirth arthritis. Conditions such as fibromyalgia, gout and sepsis must be considered when having treatment for osteoarthritis.

If you suspect you have osteoarthritis, make sure you see your family doctor. Accurate assessment, diagnosis and investigation of potential associated illnesses will help both in the short and long term when having osteoarthritis treatment.

Dr. Phil Hariram.

Arthritis Guide.