As a medical professional with a focus on rheumatology, I can provide a comprehensive understanding of what it feels like to have osteoarthritis (OA). Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that primarily affects the cartilage, causing it to wear away over time. This leads to the bones in the joint rubbing against each other, which can cause a range of symptoms and discomfort.
The pain associated with osteoarthritis is often described as a dull and aching sensation. It tends to be worse after periods of inactivity or overuse of the joint. For instance, someone with knee osteoarthritis might experience more pain after sitting for a long time and then standing up, or after a day of heavy physical activity.

Stiffness is another common symptom, usually noticed in the morning or after sitting for an extended period. This stiffness typically improves with movement, but it can be quite limiting initially, making it difficult to perform daily tasks.

The affected joints, as you mentioned, are often the ends of the fingers, thumbs, neck, lower back, knees, and hips. However, any joint can be affected by OA. The joint pain can be accompanied by crepitus, which is a grating or crackling sound when the joint is moved.

Inflammation is not typically a feature of osteoarthritis, which is considered a non-inflammatory form of arthritis. However, if there is warmth or redness around a joint, it could suggest another type of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, or it could be a sign of an infection or other condition that requires medical attention.

The impact of osteoarthritis on a person's life can be significant. It can lead to a decrease in mobility, which in turn can affect one's ability to work, engage in leisure activities, and maintain independence. The disease can also have a psychological impact, leading to feelings of frustration, depression, and anxiety due to the chronic nature of the condition and the limitations it imposes.

Treatment for osteoarthritis involves managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This can include a combination of medication, physical therapy, weight management, and sometimes surgery.
Medications such as pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
Physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles around the joint, improving stability and reducing the load on the joint.
Weight management is crucial because extra weight puts additional stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.

In summary, living with osteoarthritis can be challenging due to the chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility it causes. However, with appropriate management and a proactive approach to treatment, many people with OA are able to lead active and fulfilling lives.

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With osteoarthritis, the pain and stiffness are usually limited to the affected joints. The joints most commonly affected by osteoarthritis are those at the ends of the fingers, thumbs, neck, lower back, knees, and hips. If you feel warmth or your skin appears red around a joint, that is an indication of inflammation.Apr 1, 2018read more >>