Which finding indicates decreased joint mobility in osteoarthritis?

Which finding indicates decreased joint mobility in osteoarthritis?

• A. No change in ROM.
• B. Increased joint mobility.
• C. Decreased joint mobility and ROM.
• D. Joint stiffness improves with activity.

Answer: (C)

In osteoarthritis, the joint undergoes degenerative changes such as articular cartilage loss, narrowing of the joint space, and osteophyte formation. These structural alterations physically restrict movement, so both joint mobility and range of motion become reduced. That’s why decreased joint mobility and ROM is the best indicator of OA. Options suggesting no change or increased ROM don’t fit the degenerative pattern, and while stiffness can occur, it is typically transient and does not imply preserved mobility.

In osteoarthritis, the joint undergoes degenerative changes such as articular cartilage loss, narrowing of the joint space, and osteophyte formation. These structural alterations physically restrict movement, so both joint mobility and range of motion become reduced. That’s why decreased joint mobility and ROM is the best indicator of OA.

Options suggesting no change or increased ROM don’t fit the degenerative pattern, and while stiffness can occur, it is typically transient and does not imply preserved mobility.