What is osteoarthritis? (Introduction)

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It develops when the smooth cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in a joint slowly thins and roughens. Bone underneath can thicken, small bony spurs may form, and the joint lining can become irritated. It most often affects the knees, hips, hands, spine and the base of the thumb.

How common it is

It becomes more frequent with age, but it can start earlier after a joint injury or with long-standing overload. Women are affected more often than men, especially after menopause. Knee osteoarthritis is a leading cause of walking difficulty in older adults.

Main features

• Joint pain that worsens with activity and eases with rest
• Short morning stiffness, usually under 30 minutes
• Creaking or grating sensation (crepitus)
• Bony enlargement and reduced range of movement

Ayurvedic view

Ayurveda describes this picture as Sandhigata Vata, where aggravated Vata is said to dry and wear the joint's lubricating Shleshaka Kapha. This is an interpretive framework. Evidence for Ayurvedic treatments in osteoarthritis is limited, and they are best used as an adjunct to, not a substitute for, medical care.

What helps most

Modern guidelines put exercise, strength training, weight management and activity pacing first. Pain relief, physiotherapy and, in advanced cases, joint replacement are options your doctor can discuss.

See a doctor if joint pain lasts more than a few weeks, the joint swells or feels hot, you cannot bear weight, or night pain wakes you.