Why does osteoarthritis cause reduced range of motion?

Reduced Range of Motion is a very common presentation of Osteoarthritis. Damage and thinning of cartilage can alter how the joint surfaces glide. The joint may produce extra fluid or develop a thicker capsule, causing a feeling of fullness or tightness. Pain can make you unconsciously protect the area, and reduced use may weaken the muscles that guide and support the joint. Together, these changes can make it harder to fully bend, straighten, rotate or reach. A knee may not straighten comfortably, a hip may limit walking or turning, or finger joints may make gripping difficult. The restriction may fluctuate with activity and stiffness, and it can have causes other than osteoarthritis.

Keep the joint moving through a comfortable range several times during the day. A physiotherapist can choose mobility exercises, strengthening work and activity changes for the affected joint. Low-impact activities may allow fitness without repeated jolting, while pacing helps avoid a cycle of overdoing activity and then resting for too long. Warmth may ease stiffness before exercise. Do not force a joint past a hard stop or sharp pain. A clinician can review pain relief options and check whether a brace, walking aid or other support would improve function.

Book a clinical assessment if movement is steadily decreasing, daily tasks are becoming difficult, or the restriction follows an injury. Seek prompt care for sudden inability to move, marked swelling, a hot or red joint, fever, severe pain, numbness, or inability to bear weight. These signs may require a different examination and treatment plan. Early review can also identify weakness or movement habits that are adding strain.

Ask which movements are safe to practise, whether weakness is contributing to the restriction, and what improvement to monitor during physiotherapy. Ask how to distinguish expected stiffness from a new injury or another joint condition.