Symptoms of osteoarthritis: Extreme pain in the joints during or after movement. Stiffness in the joints upon awakening or after being inactive. Tenderness around the affected areas when you apply a light pressure. Loss of flexibility in the joints, restraining full range of motion. Grating sensation like popping and crackling. Extra lumps of bone. Swelling in the joints due to soft tissue inflammation. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis Tender, warm and swollen joints. Morning stiffness. Prolonged fatigue. Easy onset of fever. Lack of appetite.