Symptoms and Complications
The following are symptoms of osteoarthritis (OA):
- deep, aching joint pain, sometimes sharp, with activity; the pain sometimes persists at rest
- transient joint stiffness after a period of rest (such as getting up in the morning or after a long time spent sitting)
- swelling and stiffness in one or more joints
- enlarged middle- or end-joints of the fingers or the base of thumb
- a crunching feeling or sound when moving joints
- loss of joint flexibility
- back and neck pain and stiffness
Weight-bearing joints such as hips, knees, and feet are more prone to OA. It is important to note that many people have OA but don't experience any symptoms. The symptoms of OA can be made worse by overusing the joints.