If you are experiencing symptoms of osteoarthritis or need support with joint care, My Health Assistant is here to help. We connect you with experienced health professionals near me, including GPs, physiotherapists, rheumatologists, and orthopaedic specialists. Visit www.myha.co.uk, enter your symptoms and location, and book your appointment securely and conveniently online.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative condition that affects the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones gradually wears down over time, leading to joint damage. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint, but it most commonly impacts the knees, hips, hands, and spine. Although it is often associated with ageing, osteoarthritis can affect younger people as well, particularly after joint injuries.
Symptoms of osteoarthritis can vary depending on which joints are affected and may include:
Joint pain during or after movement
Stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity or first thing in the morning
Loss of flexibility and reduced range of motion
Swelling or tenderness around the joint
A grating or cracking sensation during movement
Formation of bone spurs (extra bits of bone) around the joint
Symptoms tend to worsen gradually and can significantly impact daily activities.
Several factors can contribute to the development of osteoarthritis, including:
Ageing – the risk increases with age
Joint injuries – from accidents or repetitive stress
Obesity – extra weight puts additional stress on joints
Genetics – family history may increase your risk
Bone deformities – congenital joint or cartilage abnormalities
Certain occupations – jobs that involve repetitive joint movements
Understanding the cause can help guide the most effective management strategies.
You should seek medical advice if you experience:
Persistent joint pain, stiffness, or swelling
Difficulty moving a joint normally
Symptoms that interfere with daily life, work, or recreational activities
Rapid worsening of joint function
Concerns about joint appearance (such as visible deformities)
Early diagnosis and intervention can slow progression and reduce symptom severity.
A range of specialists may help manage osteoarthritis, including:
General practitioners (GPs) – for initial diagnosis and management
Rheumatologists – for specialised care of joint conditions
Orthopaedic surgeons – for surgical intervention if necessary
Physiotherapists – to help maintain joint function and strength
Occupational therapists – to assist with adaptive techniques for daily activities
Pain specialists – for advanced pain management
Looking for health professionals near me to treat osteoarthritis? My Health Assistant can connect you with trusted experts nearby.
Without proper management, osteoarthritis can lead to:
Chronic pain and disability
Loss of joint function and mobility
Reduced independence
Increased risk of falls and injury
Mental health challenges, including depression and anxiety due to chronic pain
Effective treatment can greatly improve quality of life and maintain independence.
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving joint function and may include:
Lifestyle modifications:
Weight loss to reduce joint stress
Low-impact exercise such as swimming or cycling
Joint protection techniques
Medications:
Pain relievers such as paracetamol or NSAIDs (ibuprofen)
Topical analgesics
Corticosteroid injections for inflammation
Therapies:
Physiotherapy exercises to strengthen muscles around the joint
Occupational therapy to adapt daily tasks
Surgical options:
Joint replacement surgery (e.g., hip or knee replacement)
Arthroscopy or joint realignment in certain cases
A personalised, multidisciplinary approach ensures the best outcomes.
Osteoarthritis is a progressive condition, but with the right treatment and lifestyle changes, its impact can be significantly reduced. Early intervention, professional support, and ongoing management are key to maintaining mobility, reducing pain, and improving quality of life. My Health Assistant makes it easy to find trusted health professionals near me to guide your osteoarthritis journey. Take control of your joint health today at www.myha.co.uk.
