Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a common degenerative joint condition that causes cartilage wear, bone change, pain, and stiffness.
When to get help quickly: Osteoarthritis is usually not urgent, but a suddenly hot, very swollen, or severely painful joint still needs prompt review because another cause may be present.
Common symptoms
Common symptoms include joint pain, stiffness after rest, reduced movement, swelling, and pain that often gets worse with use.
When imaging helps
Imaging helps confirm the pattern of joint wear, show how advanced it is, and look for other causes of pain when symptoms are unclear.
What radiology does
X-rays often show joint space narrowing, osteophytes, and chronic degenerative change, while MRI may help in selected cases.
What usually happens next
Care may include exercise, pain relief, weight support, injections, and joint replacement when advanced disease limits daily function.
Seen this on your report?
Your doctor or the radiologist who wrote it can tell you what it means for you.
Related articles
Related scan guides
- Hip MRIA Hip MRI is a specialized scan focusing on the ball-and-socket joint connecting your leg to your pelvis. It is highly effective for investigating deep groin pain, catching sensations, and detecting restricted blood flow to the bone.
- Knee MRIA Knee MRI is a specialized scan focusing on the complex hinge joint of the knee. It is highly effective for diagnosing sports injuries, identifying the cause of chronic joint pain, and evaluating damage to cartilage and ligaments.
- Lumbar Spine (Lower Back) MRIA Lumbar Spine MRI is a specialized scan focusing on the lower back. It is highly effective for investigating the root cause of chronic lower back pain, sciatica, and numbness or weakness in the legs.