If a person is experiencing pain, stiffness and bony enlargement and swelling, it is likely that he has osteoarthritis. Joint pain results when bony overgrowth rubs together. In cases like this, the body responds by shifting use to a favored joint. The result could be additional strain on the favored joint aggravating the problem. Commonly affected areas are the hips, knees, spine, and hands including small hand joints.

The objective of treating the disease is to minimize pain, improve movement and lessen further damage to other parts of the body. It will vary from person to person and depending on the severity, can range from simple weight control and exercise all the way to surgery. In some cases, osteoarthritis knee braces can help provide relief. It works by creating a space between joints thereby taking pressure off the knee joint. A physical therapist can make an assessment on whether knee braces are needed for particular cases.