Osteoarthritis: Movement Is Medicine
Avoiding activity worsens stiffness and pain.
Dr. Inès Da Costa
Rheumatologist
In simple terms
Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disease, but the old advice to 'rest the joint' is wrong.
What you need to remember
- First-line treatment — Structured exercise (strengthening + aerobic)
- Medication and procedures — Oral NSAIDs at lowest effective dose, intra-articular steroids for short relief.
- Surgery — Total joint replacement is one of the most successful surgeries in modern medicine for end-stage hip or knee OA.
Progressive loss of cartilage with reactive bone remodelling. Knees, hips and hands are most affected.
First-line treatment
- Structured exercise (strengthening + aerobic)
- Weight management
- Education and self-management programs
- Topical NSAIDs for hand/knee OA
Medication and procedures
Oral NSAIDs at lowest effective dose, intra-articular steroids for short relief. Hyaluronic acid has limited evidence.
Surgery
Total joint replacement is one of the most successful surgeries in modern medicine for end-stage hip or knee OA.
Strong thigh muscles protect knees better than supplements or special diets.
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Topical
- A treatment you apply on the skin, like a cream, gel or ointment.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Osteoarthritis: Movement Is Medicine?
- Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disease, but the old advice to 'rest the joint' is wrong.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Osteoarthritis: Movement Is Medicine?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Osteoarthritis: Movement Is Medicine?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
Related health topics
Conditions
Osteoarthritis: Movement Is Medicine
Regular low-impact exercise, weight management, and physiotherapy remain first-line therapy.
Allergies & Immunity
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Early Treatment Saves Joints
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune joint disease where rapid, intensive treatment dramatically alters long-term outcomes.
Bones, Joints & Muscles
Gout: Acute Crises and Long-Term Control
Gout is the most common inflammatory arthritis in men. Effective uric-acid-lowering therapy prevents recurrent attacks.