Osteoarthritis
Clinical diagnosis, functional assessment, and conservative management.
Last reviewed January 5, 2026
Red flags
- Hot, swollen joint with fever or recent trauma.
- Rapidly progressive pain with systemic symptoms.
Diagnosis
- Chronic joint pain with activity, brief morning stiffness, and reduced function.
- Clinical diagnosis is typical; imaging is not required if presentation is classic.
Initial workup
- Assess pain severity, function, gait, and impact on daily activities.
- Rule out inflammatory arthritis when there is prolonged morning stiffness or swelling.
First-line management
- Exercise therapy (strengthening, low-impact aerobic) and weight management.
- Topical NSAIDs and acetaminophen as first-line pharmacologic options.
- Consider intra-articular corticosteroid for acute flare if needed.
Referral triggers
- Suspected inflammatory arthritis or infection.
- Severe functional limitation or consideration of joint replacement.
References
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