The first symptom of osteoarthritis is a pain around the affected joint(s) after a period of prolonged or strenuous use, such as after a long walk or exercise. The pain increases with continued use of the joint, but usually subsides after sufficient rest. At the beginning, the pain often comes and goes, and may become persistent pain over time.
Mild stiffness usually sets in when the joints have been rested (“gelling”). Therefore, if you have been sitting still for some time, your hips and knees may feel stiff upon standing again. Some patients may have a warm feeling in the joint and even see the joint swelling. Worsening of pain and stiffness with weather changes is a common complaint. Over time, the affected joint(s) may look crooked. If knees are the affected joints, they may become bow-looking.
