What condition is characterized by joint pain and stiffness that worsens throughout the day and is relieved by rest?

The condition characterized by joint pain and stiffness that worsens throughout the day and is relieved by rest is osteoarthritis. This degenerative joint disease typically presents with symptoms that are more pronounced with activity and during the day, particularly after prolonged use of the affected joints. As the day progresses, individuals often experience increased discomfort and stiffness, especially in weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips. However, the stiffness tends to improve with rest and can be temporarily relieved when the joint is not in use.

In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis typically presents with morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes and improves throughout the day, which is opposite to the pattern described in this scenario. Gout often results in acute, intense pain that occurs suddenly and is usually associated with swelling and redness. Pseudogout, similar to gout, can present with acute joint pain but is typically linked to calcium pyrophosphate crystal deposition and does not follow the same pattern of worsening pain with activity as seen in osteoarthritis. Therefore, the characteristics of worsening pain with activity and relief with rest align specifically with osteoarthritis.