Symptoms and Complications
The following are symptoms of osteoarthritis:
- joint pain after rest or activity
- joint pain brought on by a change in weather
- 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 some people have osteoarthritis but don't experience any symptoms. The symptoms of osteoarthritis can be made worse by overusing the joints.