Which of the following is NOT a symptom of osteoarthritis?

In the context of osteoarthritis, it's important to identify the common symptoms associated with the condition. Osteoarthritis primarily affects the joints and is characterized by a gradual degradation of cartilage, leading to joint pain and other symptoms.

Joint pain is a hallmark symptom of osteoarthritis, often worsening with activity and improving with rest. Swelling may occur in the affected joints, particularly after activity or after prolonged use. Although warmth around the joints is generally associated with inflammatory types of arthritis, it is not a primary symptom of osteoarthritis, where inflammation is typically less pronounced.

Loss of cartilage is fundamentally a defining feature of osteoarthritis itself, as it directly contributes to the pain and functional limitations that patients experience.

Therefore, warmth of joints is not a typical symptom of osteoarthritis, making it the correct choice. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing and managing the condition effectively.