Knee Arthritis
A degenerative joint condition that may cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility
Knee arthritis is a common condition that can significantly affect your quality of life. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the knee joint wears down, leading to increased friction between the bones. This wear can result in pain, swelling, and reduced movement. While there is no cure for arthritis, a range of treatment options are available to help manage symptoms and support better function.
On this page, you’ll find information about the different types of arthritis that can affect the knee, common symptoms, how it is diagnosed, and treatment options that may be considered depending on the stage of the condition.
Symptoms of knee arthritis
Knee arthritis can present in different ways depending on the underlying cause and severity. Common symptoms may include:
- Pain in the knee, which may worsen with activity or after long periods of rest
- Swelling or tenderness around the joint, sometimes accompanied by warmth
- Joint stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting for a while
- Reduced range of motion, making it harder to bend, straighten, or walk comfortably
- Grinding or clicking sensations during movement
- Instability or joint deformity in more advanced stages, causing the knee to feel like it may “give way”
Types of knee arthritis
Two of the most common types of arthritis affecting the knee include osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthritis. Each has distinct causes and management strategies.
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of knee arthritis. It is a degenerative condition that develops over time due to the gradual breakdown of joint cartilage. As the cartilage wears away, bones begin to rub against each other, leading to inflammation, stiffness, and pain.
- Age-related cartilage wear
- Previous knee injuries (e.g. fractures, ligament or meniscus tears)
- Being overweight or obese
- Family history of osteoarthritis
- Repetitive strain from work or sport
Management of knee osteoarthritis depends on how advanced the condition is and may include both non-surgical and surgical treatments.
Inflammatory arthritis
Common types of inflammatory arthritis that can affect the knee include:
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): A chronic autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the lining of the joints and may affect multiple parts of the body.
- Gout: Caused by a build-up of uric acid crystals in the joint, resulting in sudden and intense pain, usually in flare-ups.
- Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus): A systemic autoimmune disease that may affect multiple joints, including the knees, along with other organs.
How knee arthritis is diagnosed
- Clinical history: A discussion of your symptoms, activity levels, previous injuries, and general health.
- Physical examination: Assessing joint movement, swelling, tenderness, and stability.
- Imaging tests:
- X-rays to assess joint space narrowing and bone changes
- MRI (if needed) to evaluate soft tissue damage such as cartilage or meniscal injury
- Blood tests: These may be ordered if an inflammatory or autoimmune form of arthritis is suspected.
- Joint aspiration: In select cases, a sample of joint fluid may be analysed to rule out infection or gout.
Treatment options for knee arthritis
Non-surgical treatments
- Medications: Anti-inflammatories, pain relievers, and joint injections (e.g. cortisone)
- Physiotherapy: Strengthening exercises and joint mobilisation can support function and reduce pain
- Activity modification: Reducing high-impact activities and using supportive footwear or braces
- Weight management: Reducing body weight can decrease the load on your knee joint
Surgical treatments
Dr Awwad will discuss the most appropriate treatment options based on your age, activity level, and goals. In many cases, early intervention can help delay progression and reduce the need for joint replacement surgery.
