Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and can sometimes be called degenerative joint disease, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Unlike other forms of arthritis, osteoarthritis affects only your joint function, states the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease. This form of arthritis affects the cartilage surrounding your joints. When this cartilage is damaged, numerous symptoms of osteoarthritis will occur. You will notice changes in your joints and the way they operate. Becoming aware of these symptoms can protect your joint health.
Joint Pain
Joint pain is a common symptom of osteoarthritis in the whole body. Any joint in your body can become afflicted with pain. Your pain could be continuous and steady, intermittent or triggered by activity or resting. The level of pain is dependent upon your individual situation, which joint is affected and how severe your arthritis is. Your joint pain can range from being mild and not interfering with your daily activities to that which causes significant disability and pain. When your joint pain gets in the way of your ability to rest or sleep, the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases recommends you consult your doctor.
Joint Stiffness
Being unable to move your joints easily may be a sign of another osteoarthritis symptom, joint stiffness. In fact, joint stiffness is the most common symptom of osteoarthritis, states the Arthritis Foundation. Joint stiffness results in decreased joint mobility and an increased difficulty in using your joints. As your cartilage begins to deteriorate, the shape and physiology of your knee changes so that it no longer functions smoothly, states the Arthritis Foundation. Joint stiffness most commonly will manifest itself when you first wake up in the morning. Morning joint stiffness usually lasts for 30 minutes, states the American Academy of Family Physicians. This symptom also commonly occurs when you first stand up after being seated for a prolonged period of time, according to the National Institute on Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. As your joint stiffness progresses, you may notice you walk with a limp. Going up and down stairs becomes more difficult due to the increased stress put on your joints. You may also notice an increased difficulty in lifting things and/or holding items as your joint mobility decreases.
Crunching Sounds
As your osteoarthritis progresses and your cartilage decreases, your joints will have no protective cushioning. When this occurs, you will be bone-on-bone. Your bones will be rubbing together, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. You will hear a sound similar to crunching or feel your bones pressing against each other. As your disease progresses, the sound or feeling will intensify.
Swelling
Another symptom of osteoarthritis in your whole body may be swelling, or inflammation, of the area surrounding your affected joints. Wherever your osteoarthritis is located is the joint where you experience the swelling. The swelling occurs after you have used your affected joint for any length of time. Your joint swelling will not cause the skin surrounding your joint to become red or hot. If it does, this is not a symptom of osteoarthritis, states the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease. You need to consult with your doctor.
