What is osteoarthritis and what drives it?

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, characterised by gradual breakdown of articular cartilage, bone remodelling, and synovial inflammation. Age, obesity, prior joint injury, occupational loading, and genetic factors are the main risk factors. OA is not purely "wear and tear" — inflammation and metabolic factors play significant roles in its development and progression.

Does exercise make osteoarthritis worse?

A common misconception is that exercise accelerates joint damage. Evidence consistently shows the opposite: appropriate exercise reduces pain, improves function, and may slow disease progression. Low-impact activities — swimming, cycling, walking, yoga, Pilates, and hydrotherapy — are particularly well tolerated. The key is grading activity appropriately to current capacity.

What complementary approaches help manage osteoarthritis?

Acupuncture has moderate evidence for pain reduction in knee and hip OA. Massage and manual mobilisation address soft tissue components and improve range of motion. Nutritional approaches including anti-inflammatory diets and omega-3 fatty acids have emerging evidence. Weight management — even modest reductions — produces significant reduction in joint load and pain.

Are supplements helpful for osteoarthritis?

Glucosamine and chondroitin have mixed trial evidence but are widely used and generally well tolerated. Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory evidence. Vitamin D supplementation is appropriate where deficiency is present, as it is common in OA populations. A nutritional therapist can help identify what supplementation is most appropriate for your situation.

Musculoskeletallow Risk

Osteoarthritis

Find what may help →

Reviewed by Dr. Ian Henderson · Microbiobial Health & Medicine26 March 2026Emerging evidence

Quick answer

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, involving cartilage breakdown and joint degeneration causing pain and stiffness, most commonly in the knees, hips, hands, and spine. Therapeutic exercise, anti-inflammatory nutrition, acupuncture, and weight management are the most evidence-supported holistic approaches.

Do any of these feel familiar?

Osteoarthritis is experienced as a gradual erosion of joint function — most commonly in the knees, hips, hands, and spine
Pain and stiffness are the defining features: many people notice their joints are worst after rest and take time to "warm up" with movement
Activity beyond a certain threshold intensifies pain, leading many to curtail exercise and physical engagement progressively
A grating or cracking sensation in the joint is frequently reported
Many people describe a slow withdrawal from activities they previously enjoyed — walking, gardening, sport — which in turn affects mood, fitness, and social connection

Ready to find support for Osteoarthritis?

Connect with verified holistic and complementary practitioners who may help.

Browse Practitioners

Osteoarthritis

Do any of these feel familiar?

Ready to find support for Osteoarthritis?

Contraindications

What does your experience feel like?

Integrative Approaches

Ask Vidi about Osteoarthritis

Overview

Symptoms & Affected Systems

Contributing Factors

Supporting Lifestyle Strategies

Evidence Context

When to Seek Professional Help

Related Conditions

Osteoarthritis of Knee

Musculoskeletal Pain

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Gout

Sarcopenia

Frequently Asked Questions