Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. Here's how to spot it early and protect your joints through targeted lifestyle changes.
Osteoarthritis occurs when cartilage — the smooth tissue at joint ends — wears down over time. It’s most common in knees, hips, hands, and spine.
Symptoms include stiffness, joint pain during or after movement, tenderness, and limited range of motion.
It often results from aging, previous injuries, obesity, or repetitive stress on joints.
Treatment includes physical therapy, weight management, anti-inflammatory medication, and in severe cases, joint replacement surgery.
Joint protection strategies include low-impact exercise (like swimming or cycling), wearing proper footwear, and avoiding prolonged standing or heavy lifting.