Knee arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, especially as they age.

This condition occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones in your knees wears down over time.

Arthritis can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling, making everyday activities challenging. Understanding the signs of knee arthritis can help you manage the condition better and seek early treatment to slow its progression.

In this blog, Mykare Health will go through different signs that help you recognise Knee Arthritis.

Types of Knee Arthritis

Before diving into the signs, it’s essential to know that there are different types of knee arthritis. The most common ones are

• Osteoarthritis (OA): This is the most common form, caused by the wear and tear of cartilage over time. OA is more common in older adults and is often linked to joint overuse.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): RA is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the joints, causing inflammation and damage. This can occur at any age.

• Post-traumatic Arthritis: This can develop after an injury to the knee, such as a fracture, ligament tear, or meniscus injury.

• Gout and Pseudogout: These forms of arthritis occur when crystals form in the knee joint, leading to inflammation and pain.

Common Signs of Knee Arthritis

Now, let’s take a look at the most common signs of knee arthritis. These signs may vary depending on the type of arthritis you have, but there are general symptoms to watch for.

1. Pain

Pain is one of the earliest and most common signs of knee arthritis. It can range from mild to severe and may worsen with physical activity or over time. In the early stages, pain may be felt after activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods. As the condition progresses, the pain can become more constant, even at rest.

2. Swelling and Inflammation

Swelling around the knee joint is a typical symptom of knee arthritis. The swelling occurs when the tissues surrounding the knee become inflamed or when excess fluid accumulates in the joint. This swelling can make your knee appear larger or feel warm to the touch. Swelling may increase after physical activity or extended periods of rest.

3. Stiffness

Another common sign is stiffness in the knee joint, particularly after waking up in the morning or after sitting for a long time. The knee may feel tight and difficult to move. This stiffness usually lessens with movement, but as arthritis progresses, the stiffness may persist throughout the day.

4. Reduced Range of Motion

As knee arthritis worsens, it can affect your range of motion. You might find it harder to bend or straighten your knee completely. Over time, this reduced range of motion can limit your ability to perform everyday tasks like squatting, kneeling, or walking up stairs.

5. Grinding or Popping Sensation

Many people with knee arthritis experience a grinding, clicking, or popping sensation when they move their knee. This happens because the cartilage has worn away, and the bones are rubbing against each other. The grinding is often more noticeable during activities such as climbing stairs or standing up from a seated position.

6. Weakness and Buckling

Knee arthritis can lead to muscle weakness around the joint. As a result, you may notice that your knee feels weak or unstable, and it might buckle or give way unexpectedly when you’re walking or standing. This instability can increase your risk of falls and make it harder to stay active.

7. Bone Spurs

Bone spurs, or osteophytes, are bony growths that develop on the edges of bones. These can occur in the knee joint as a result of arthritis. While bone spurs themselves may not cause pain, they can contribute to joint stiffness and reduce your knee's range of motion. In some cases, they can irritate surrounding tissues, leading to additional discomfort.

8. Knee Deformity

In severe cases of knee arthritis, the shape of the knee joint can change over time. This can lead to visible deformity, such as bow-leggedness or knock-knees. These changes occur as the cartilage continues to wear away and the bones begin to shift.

9. Locking of the Knee

Locking occurs when your knee gets stuck in one position, and it may be difficult to straighten or bend it. This is usually due to damage to the cartilage or bone fragments floating in the joint, blocking normal movement.

10. Fatigue and Malaise

While fatigue is more commonly associated with rheumatoid arthritis, people with osteoarthritis can also feel a sense of fatigue or malaise. This may be due to the body’s response to inflammation or the increased effort required to manage the pain and stiffness of arthritis.

Risk Factors for Knee Arthritis

Several factors can increase your risk of developing knee arthritis, including:

• Age: The risk increases as you get older.

• Weight: Excess weight puts added stress on your knee joints.

• Gender: Women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis, particularly after age 50.

• Previous injuries: Knee injuries, such as torn cartilage or ligaments, can lead to post-traumatic arthritis.

• Genetics: A family history of arthritis can increase your risk.

• Occupational stress: Jobs that require repetitive knee bending or heavy lifting can increase the risk of knee arthritis.

Diagnosis of Knee Arthritis

If you suspect you have knee arthritis, it’s essential to seek medical advice. A doctor can diagnose knee arthritis through a combination of a physical exam, imaging tests (such as X-rays or MRI), and lab tests (for rheumatoid arthritis). Early diagnosis can help slow the progression of the disease and improve your quality of life.

Treatment Options for Knee Arthritis

While there is no cure for knee arthritis, various treatments can help manage symptoms and improve joint function. Treatment options include

• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, or corticosteroid injections may be prescribed to reduce pain and swelling.

• Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises, stretching, and low-impact activities can improve flexibility, reduce pain, and support joint stability.

• Lifestyle Changes: Losing weight, eating a balanced diet, and staying active can reduce stress on your knee joints and improve overall health.

• Surgical Options: In severe cases, knee replacement surgery or other surgical procedures may be necessary to repair or replace damaged tissue.

Conclusion

Recognizing the signs of knee arthritis early is vital for managing the condition effectively. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. With the right approach, you can maintain mobility and reduce the impact of arthritis on your daily life.