Symptoms

Osteoarthritis can cause loss of cartilage in the knee. The meniscus, the cartilage pad between the joint formed by the thighbone and the shinbone, plays an important role in protecting the joint. It acts as a shock absorber. In knee surgery called meniscectomy, the doctor removes the damaged cartilage. However, a 2006 study suggested that preserving the meniscus, even if it is damaged, is better than removing it. Researchers showed that even a small amount of meniscus helps protect the joint and prevent osteoarthritis from worsening. Experts recommend that patients try lifestyle changes (exercise and weight loss), braces, and medication before undergoing knee surgery.

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Hips. Osteoarthritis frequently strikes the weight-bearing joints in one or both hips. Pain develops slowly, usually in the groin and on the outside of the hips, or sometimes in the buttocks. The pain also may radiate to the knee, confusing the diagnosis. Those with osteoarthritis of the hip often have a restricted range of motion (particularly when trying to rotate the hip) and walk with a limp, because they slightly turn the affected leg to avoid pain.

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Spine. Osteoarthritis may affect the cartilage in the disks that form cushions between the bones of the spine, the moving joints of the spine itself, or both. Osteoarthritis in any of these locations can cause pain, muscle spasms, and diminished mobility. In some cases, the nerves may become pinched, which also produces pain. Advanced disease may result in numbness and muscle weakness. Osteoarthritis of the spine is most troublesome when it occurs in the lower back or in the neck, where it can cause difficulty in swallowing.

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Shoulder. Osteoarthritis is less common in the shoulder area than in other joints, but it may develop in the shoulder joint (the glenohumeral joint). In such cases, it is most often associated with a previous injury, and patients gradually develop pain and stiffness in the back of the shoulder. Osteoarthritis also can develop in the acromioclavicular (AC) joint, which is between the shoulder blade and the collarbone. However, it rarely causes symptoms in this location.