International Journal of Innovative Research in Health Science

Introduction: Osteoarthritis, the most prevalent form of arthritis, affects millions around the world and arises when the protective cartilage at the ends of bones gradually breaks down, causing damage to the joints. Aim: The study aimed to assess the knowledge regarding warning signs of osteoarthritis among general public at selected rural area Puducherry. Methodology: The research conducted in Thirubhuvanai, Puducherry, utilized a quantitative approach with a descriptive study design. The population included general public aged 18–65 years, and a sample of 50 participants was selected using convenient sampling. Inclusion criteria were individuals (male or female) willing to participate and able to speak Tamil or English. Results: The result shows that majority 27 (54%) of them had inadequate knowledge, 22 (44%) of them had adequate knowledge and 1 (2%) of them had moderately adequate knowledge on warning signs of osteoarthritis. Conclusion: The researcher concluded that t The findings revealed that the majority of participants had inadequate knowledge. A significant association was observed between knowledge levels and selected demographic variables such as age and education (p < 0.05).