The symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid (inflammatory) arthritis are similar. These include:
- Grinding, clicking or cracking feelings in the affected joint with movement
- Abnormally shaped joints
- Pain in the affected joint – which may worsen when the joint is used (eg. when gripping heavy objects), but is relieved with rested
- Pain may become more constant over time – changing from a dull ache to a sharp pain, which sometimes spreads beyond the affected joint
- Reduced movement in the affected joint
- Swollen red joints that are tender to touch
- Weak joints
People with rheumatoid (inflammatory) arthritis may have longer morning stiffness and more swelling and redness of the joints than those with osteoarthritis.