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    3. Rheumatology
    4. Osteoarthritis

    Osteoarthritis 

    At Mayo Clinic Healthcare in London, our experienced rheumatologists and musculoskeletal specialists work together to diagnose and treat osteoarthritis using a personalised, evidence-based approach. Through advanced diagnostic testing, comprehensive assessment and multidisciplinary care, we develop tailored treatment plans designed around your symptoms, lifestyle and long-term health goals.

    Whether you are seeking clarity about ongoing joint pain or exploring treatment options for established osteoarthritis, our team provides expert care in the heart of central London.

    • Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time. The condition can affect any joint in the body, but it most commonly develops joints in the hands, knees, hips and spine.

      Osteoarthritis symptoms can often be managed, but the damage caused to joints through the condition is irreversible. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help manage symptoms, maintain mobility and slow progression of the condition.

    • Many people use the terms arthritis and osteoarthritis interchangeably, but they are not the same condition.

      Arthritis is a broad term used to describe more than 100 conditions that affect the joints and surrounding tissues.

      Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and is most commonly caused by the gradual wear and tear of joint cartilage over time.

      Other forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, are inflammatory autoimmune conditions that require different treatment approaches.

      Accurate diagnosis is essential, as identifying the specific cause of joint pain helps ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment.

    • Symptoms of osteoarthritis often develop gradually and may worsen over time. 

      Symptoms may include: 

      • Pain in affected joints
      • Stiffness, more noticeable when first waking up
      • Tenderness, when light pressure is applied
      • Loss of flexibility
      • Grating sensation when you move the affected joint
      • Bone spurs, which feel like hard lumps
      • Swelling, around the joint

      If joint pain, stiffness or reduced mobility is affecting your daily activities, it is advisable to seek specialist assessment. 

    • Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage within a joint gradually deteriorates. As the cartilage becomes thinner, the joint loses its ability to move smoothly and the bones may begin to rub against one another, leading to pain, inflammation and stiffness.

      While age is one of the most significant risk factors, several other factors may increase the likelihood of developing osteoarthritis.

      Risk factors include: 

      • Sex assigned at birth, osteoarthritis is more common in females
      • Obesity, extra body weight puts strain on your joints
      • Joint injuries, from playing sports, can cause damage to bones
      • Repeated stress on joint, through jobs or sports for instance
      • Genetics, some people inherit tendency to develop osteoarthritis
      • Bone deformities
      • Metabolic diseases, like diabetes, cause your body to have too much iron

    • At Mayo Clinic Healthcare, diagnostic tests for osteoarthritis begin with a comprehensive evaluation by one of our osteoarthritis specialists. We combine clinical expertise with advanced diagnostic technology to determine the cause of your symptoms and rule out other forms of arthritis. 

      Steps to diagnosis include: 

      • Physical examination, where your consultant will inspect the affected joint for tenderness, swelling and flexibility
      • A full review of your medical history, including family history
      • X-ray, to examine gaps between bones
      • MRI, sometimes used to detect issues with cartilage and tissue
      • Blood tests for osteoarthritis, to rule out any other causes of joint pain
      • Joint fluid analysis, to check for infection

      Different conditions require different scans, and you may be recommended several scans as part of our assessment.

    • Osteoarthritis can’t be reversed, but at Mayo Clinic Healthcare we provide expert  treatments that can reduce pain and help you move better.This includes:

      Medicines

      • Over-the-counter pain relief, such as Ibrubrofen and Paracetomol
      • Duloxetine, sometimes used to treat chronic pain

      Therapy

      • Physiotherapy, exercises given by your therapist will target and strengthen the joints
      • Occupational therapy, your therapist will help you adapt your daily activities to lessen strain on joints

      Injections

      • Corticosteroid injections, to provide short-term pain relief during flare-ups

    • Patients choose Mayo Clinic Healthcare because of our commitment to delivering world-class, patient-centred care. Patients benefit from:

      • Access to experienced rheumatology and orthopaedic specialists
      • Multidisciplinary collaboration across diagnostic and rehabilitation teams
      • Advanced imaging and evidence-based treatment options
      • Personalised care plans tailored to individual needs
      • Connection to the wider Mayo Clinic network for complex cases
      • A central London location for UK and international patients

    Private health insurance 

    Mayo Clinic Healthcare works with all major private health insurance providers, including AXA PPP, Aviva, BUPA, Health Partners Group, Vitality Health and WPA. Self-pay arrangements are also available.

    Book an assessment

    If you are experiencing joint pain, stiffness or reduced mobility, our osteoarthritis specialists can provide a comprehensive assessment and personalised treatment recommendations. 

    Contact Mayo Clinic Healthcare in central London to arrange a consultation or make an enquiry by calling +44 (0) 204 654 0591.

     

    Medically Reviewed by

    Dr Anna Nuttall, Consultant Rheumatologist

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    4. Osteoarthritis