Osteoarthritis Treatment
Management of wear-and-tear joint arthritis.
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, caused by the gradual breakdown of cartilage that cushions the joints, most often affecting the knees, hips, hands, and spine as people age. It develops slowly over years, and while the underlying cartilage changes cannot be reversed, a wide range of treatments can significantly reduce pain and improve function.
Types
Primary Osteoarthritis
Develops from general age-related wear without a specific underlying cause.
Secondary Osteoarthritis
Develops due to a specific factor such as previous injury, joint deformity, or another underlying joint condition.
Early-Stage Osteoarthritis
Mild cartilage changes with manageable symptoms, generally suited to non-surgical treatment.
Advanced Osteoarthritis
Significant cartilage loss and joint damage, where non-surgical treatment provides more limited relief.
Common Causes
Osteoarthritis develops from a combination of cumulative mechanical stress on a joint and the body's reduced capacity to repair cartilage as it ages.
- Age - cartilage naturally becomes less resilient over time, making osteoarthritis more common with increasing age.
- Previous joint injury - past fractures or ligament injuries increase the likelihood of arthritis developing in that joint later.
- Excess body weight - places additional mechanical load on weight-bearing joints, accelerating cartilage wear.
- Joint deformity or misalignment - uneven loading of a joint can accelerate localised wear.
- Repetitive joint stress from certain occupations or activities over many years.
- Genetic factors influencing cartilage quality and durability.
Signs and Symptoms
- Joint pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
- Stiffness, particularly after periods of inactivity, that eases with movement
- Swelling around the affected joint
- A grinding or grating sensation with joint movement
- Gradually reduced range of motion over time
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually based on a clinical examination combined with X-rays, which show the characteristic joint space narrowing and bone changes of osteoarthritis. Imaging findings are considered alongside how significantly symptoms are actually affecting daily activity, since imaging severity does not always match symptom severity.
Treatment Approach
Treatment is generally staged, beginning with activity modification, weight management where relevant, physiotherapy, and pain relief medication. Injections may be considered for joints not responding adequately to these measures, and joint replacement surgery becomes an option when arthritis is advanced and significantly limiting quality of life. Dr. K. G. Gopalakrishna guides patients through this staged approach, moving to more involved treatment only when needed.
Please note: This page is for general information only and does not replace a proper medical evaluation. Every case is different, and the underlying cause of your symptoms may not match what is described here. Please do not use this page to self-diagnose - consult Dr. K. G. Gopalakrishna or another qualified orthopaedic specialist for an accurate diagnosis specific to you.
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Last reviewed: August 2026