Usually both the knees get affected and there may be considerable enlargeed. Hips are also frequent site of involvement producing symptoms such as pain over the front of the joint or lower abdomen. Spine apophysial joints of spine, cervical spine and lumber spine are predominantly involved. Involvement of cervical spine may give rise to symptoms such as neck pain and headache, also it can put pressure on the major arteries of the brain. The feet and ankle joints are commonly involved.
X ray is the most valuable aid for making diagnosis.
Blood test will help to rule out other forms of arthritis such as uric acid for gouty arthritis and R.A. test for rheumatoid arthritis etc. The pain of osteoarthritis, often increases by the motion of affected joints and relieves from resting. Exercise - It is essential to maintain your muscle strength and the body flexibility. Your involved joints should be moved through their full range of motion at least once every day. Posture and flexibility - Good posture and flexibility will delay the loss of function of joints that are involved in osteoarthritis.