Almost every fourth Swede over the age of 45 lives with osteoarthritis. That makes it one of the absolute most common causes of pain and stiffness – especially in the knee, hip and hands. Many people think that osteoarthritis is just "old age" that you have to accept. That's not true. Modern research shows that correct treatment can provide less pain, better mobility and a completely normal life - even with osteoarthritis in the body.
In this article, we go through what arthrosis actually is, which symptoms you should pay attention to, which treatments work best - and when it's time to seek help from a specialist.
What is osteoarthritis?
Arthritis, or joint wear and tear, is a disease where the cartilage in a joint slowly breaks down. Cartilage is the smooth, slippery material that lines the ends of bones in a joint and allows them to slide against each other without friction. When the cartilage becomes thinner and brittle, it occurs:
- Pain, especially when straining
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
- Impaired mobility
- Sometimes swelling and heat increase
Contrary to popular belief, osteoarthritis is not just "wear and tear" from too much movement. It is an active disease process in the joint where both cartilage, bone and surrounding tissue are involved.
Where in the body is osteoarthritis located?
Osteoarthritis can affect any joint, but these are most common:
Knee osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis is the most widespread form. Typical symptoms are knee pain when walking up stairs, when getting up from a chair or after a long walk. Many also experience snapping noises or a feeling that the knee is "giving out".
Osteoarthritis of the hip
The pain is usually in the groin and can radiate down the front of the thigh. You often notice it when you walk, stand up, or swing your hip. Putting on socks becomes a classic problem.
Osteoarthritis in the hands
Especially common in women after 50. Causes stiffness and pain in finger joints - sometimes with visible nodules (Heberden's and Bouchard's nodules).
Osteoarthritis of the spine (facet joint osteoarthritis)
Osteoarthritis of the small joints of the back often causes morning stiffness and pain that eases after movement. Can also cause radiating pain.
Osteoarthritis in the shoulder, thumb or toes
Less common but causes problems similar to other forms.
Symptoms - how to recognize osteoarthritis
Do you recognize yourself in any of this?
- Morning stiffness that eases within 30 minutes
- Pain on exertion that reduces at rest
- Stiffness and difficulty getting started after sitting still
- Snapping or squeaking sound in the joint
- Reduced mobility over time
- Swelling and heat increase in the joint
- Pain that disrupts sleep in more advanced osteoarthritis
- Sensation that the joint "hangs" or is unstable
It is typical for osteoarthritis that symptoms come stealthily over months or years. At first you only notice it occasionally, then it becomes more frequent.
Causes and risk factors
Osteoarthritis is caused by several factors working together:
- Age – the risk increases after 45
- Gender – women are affected more often, especially after menopause
- Overweight – every extra kilo loads the knees with 3-4 times as much when walking
- Previous injuries – e.g. cruciate ligament injuries or knee operations
- Heredity – runs in the family, the risk is higher
- Repeated load – certain occupations or sports
- Weak muscles around the joint
- Mispositions, e.g. Cobenthity
Important to know: being active and exercising regularly is not a risk factor – on the contrary, it protects the joints.
When should you seek help?
Many wait far too long. The advantage of applying early is that we can slow the progression, avoid losing your muscle strength and do more with less effort.
Contact an orthopedist or pain doctor if you have:
- Joint pain that has been present for more than a few months
- Pain that disrupts your sleep
- Morning stiffness that is bothersome
- Difficulty with everyday activities (climbing stairs, getting up, sleeping on your side)
- Pain that does not improve with usual painkillers
- Clearly poorer mobility compared to before
- A joint that swells up several times
At Scandinavian Health Clinic in Mölndal you see specialists in pain and orthopedics without a referral - usually within a few days.
Treatment of osteoarthritis - this is how you reduce the pain
Modern osteoarthritis treatment is based on a simple fact: movement is medicine. But the right movement, right execution. And often in combination with other efforts.
Movement and exercise – the mainstay
Regular exercise is the by far the best treatment for osteoarthritis. Studies show that 12 weeks of structured exercise can provide as good pain relief as knee surgery - for mild to moderate osteoarthritis.
- Strength training strengthens the muscles around the joint
- Mobility training maintains joint function
- Low-load cardio training (cycling, swimming) improves health without wearing out the joints
A specialist or physiotherapist will help you find the right arrangement for your particular joint.
Weight control
If you are overweight, every pound lost makes a big difference. A weight loss of 5-10% can significantly reduce knee pain - sometimes so much that you don't need medication.
Pain-relieving drugs
In case of flare-ups, paracetamol or NSAID (anti-inflammatory) can provide good relief. A specialist will help you use the medicines safely - and avoid long-term overuse, which can cause stomach ulcers or kidney damage.
Injection treatment (blockades)
For many patients cortisone injections provide quick and effective relief - often for several months. It is particularly suitable for inflammation or severe pain that does not respond to other treatment.
Other injection treatments available are:
- Hyaluronic acid – in case of knee osteoarthritis, lubricates the joint
- PRP (platelet rich plasma) – growing in use
Aids and orthopedic inserts
Sometimes small things can make a big difference:
- Supportive sole or heel insert
- Correct choice of shoes
- Supportive bandage during activity
- Adapted cane or walker for shorter periods
Surgery – last resort
If your osteoarthritis is advanced and no other measures help, a joint replacement (knee or hip replacement) may be appropriate. But surgery is the last resort – most people never need surgery. An orthopedist will help you assess when and if it is the right step.
Myths about osteoarthritis - and the truth
"Movement aggravates osteoarthritis"
Wrong. Movement is the best treatment. Rest and sitting still worsen the opposite.
"Arthritis will always get worse"
Not necessarily. Many have stable problems for several years, and the right treatment slows down the progression.
"Arthritis is always visible on X-ray"
Not always. There are people with clear osteoarthritis changes on X-ray but without pain – and vice versa. Imaging is a tool, not the whole truth.
"Arthritis is only for old people"
Wrong. Osteoarthritis also affects younger people, especially after previous injuries.
"There is nothing to do"
Absolutely wrong. Modern osteoarthritis treatment can provide great improvements in both pain and function.
Living well with osteoarthritis - practical advice
- Move every day, even when it hurts a little
- Heat (hot water bottle, hot bath) relieves stiffness
- Cold (ice pack) relieves swelling after activity
- Pause regularly instead of long sessions
- Invest in good shoes with cushioning soles
- Maintain a healthy weight – it takes the strain off the knees and hips
- Quit smoking – nicotine impairs cartilage healing
- Get enough sleep – recovery is essential
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can osteoarthritis be cured?
No, osteoarthritis cannot be "cured" at the moment - but it can be relieved significantly and the development slowed. Many people live a completely normal life with their osteoarthritis.
Do supplements like glucosamine help?
Research results are mixed. Some experience help, others don't. It is rarely harmful to test, but more important is movement, weight and muscle strength.
Is osteoarthritis the same as rheumatism?
No. Arthritis is a wear and tear disease of the cartilage. Rheumatoid arthritis (joint rheumatism) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease. The symptoms may be similar but the treatment is completely different.
When should I have surgery on my knee?
Only when other treatments have been exhausted and the pain greatly affects your life. An orthopedist makes an overall assessment with you before such a decision.
Do I need a referral for an orthopedist?
No. At the Scandinavian Health Clinic in Mölndal, you book an appointment directly, without a referral.
How long is the waiting time?
Usually within a few days. In case of urgent problems, we try to solve it faster.
Does the weather affect osteoarthritis?
Many people find that damp or cold weather worsens the problems. Research support exists but is weak. No matter what the weather forecast says – movement always helps.
Can I continue training with osteoarthritis?
Yes, you should keep training, but adjust. Feel free to switch high-impact training (running, jumping) to low-impact training (cycling, swimming, walking, strength training). A physiotherapist will help you find the right one.
You shouldn't have to live with constant pain
Osteoarthritis is common – but it's not something you just have to accept. With the right assessment, the right exercise and the right treatment, you can reduce pain and regain mobility.
Book an appointment with a specialist in pain and orthopedics at the Scandinavian Health Clinic in Mölndal - without a referral, with a short waiting time and close to Gothenburg.
📞 +46 (0) 10-147 77 40 ✉️ [email protected]
Book an appointment - contact us → Read more about Pain & Orthopedics → Read about knee pain → Read about hip pain → Read about shoulder pain → Read about foot pain → Read about back pain → Read about chronic pain →
