Osteoarthritis is a common form of arthritis which occurs when the cartilage in the joints wears down. According to MayoClinic.com, it is a degenerative joint disease which gets worse with time and can affect any joint in the body. The joints most commonly affected by this disorder include the hands, hips, knees, neck and the lower back. According to MedlinePlus, the symptoms of osteoarthritis include pain and swelling, difficulties in movement and muscle weakness.
Pain
According to MedlinePlus, pain in the joint is key symptom of osteoarthritis. An individual experiences a deep aching pain in the joint with osteoarthritis that worsens when the person exercises. The pain also gets worse when weight is put on it. While resting may relieve the pain in the beginning, MedlinePlus also says that the pain gets worse when the individual starts an activity after a period of inactivity. When the weather is humid or moist, the pain tends to get worse
Difficulties in Movement
According to MedlinePlus, difficulties in movement is a symptom of osteoarthritis. It goes on to say that the disorder limits the movement of the affected joint. The individual also reports experience a grating sensation while using the joint. The person may hear a grating sound or may feel the sensation when the joint is moved.
Muscle Weakness
According to MedlinePlus, muscle weakness is a symptom of osteoarthritis. As the disorder worsens with time, the cartilage between the bones disappears and the two bones begin rubbing against each other. This leads to the formation of bony spurs or growths around the joint and the ligaments and the muscles around the joint become loose and weak. MayoClinic.com says that bone spurs formed around the affected joint feel like hard lumps to the individual. When pressure is applied on the joint, it feels tender. The individual may also experience stiffness in the joint. The stiffness is experienced the most when the individual attempts to move around after waking up in the morning. It is also more noticeable after a period of inactivity.
