Symptoms

One of the earliest OA symptoms is stiffness in a joint when you first wake up. This generally does not last more than 30 minutes. There is some mild pain when moving the joint, and the pain is made worse by activity and relieved by rest. There may also be some minor swelling.

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In later stages of OA, pain is more severe and rest does not relieve it. In addition, there may be some enlargement or bony overgrowths of the joint; for example, knuckles may be bigger and appear more knobby.