Ms. (Dr.) Samantha Tross
Consultant Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgeon
First Black Female Orthopaedic Consultant in the UK
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of joint pain, but understanding what's happening inside the joint can make a huge difference when choosing treatment.
In simple terms, osteoarthritis develops when the protective cartilage in a joint gradually wears down. This leads to stiffness, swelling, aching, and reduced mobility. But arthritis is not a straightforward "wear and tear" problem — it's influenced by muscle strength, genetics, weight, injury history, and inflammation.
Treatment in 2025 is more personalised than ever. Physiotherapy, weight optimisation, activity modification and targeted strengthening often help significantly. Anti-inflammatory medication, steroid injections and newer biologic treatments can also reduce symptoms for certain patients.
When pain begins to interfere with daily life, sleep or mobility, joint replacement becomes a reliable and effective option. Modern implants and precise surgical techniques now offer long-lasting results for the majority of patients.
Osteoarthritis is a journey — but with the right plan, symptoms can be managed, mobility can be preserved, and long-term solutions are available.