Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition where cartilage wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced function.

Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition where cartilage wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced function.

This page covers causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, medications, surgical approaches, and recovery guidance related to knee osteoarthritis.

Quick Facts

FocusDetails
Condition TypeDegenerative
Common SymptomsPain that worsens with activity, Stiffness after rest or in the morning, Swelling or tenderness, Crepitus (grinding or clicking)
Typical DiagnosisMedical history and physical exam, X-ray to assess joint space and bone changes, MRI to evaluate cartilage and soft tissues
Common TreatmentsActivity modification and low-impact exercise, Physical therapy for strength and mobility, Weight management to reduce joint load, NSAIDs for pain and inflammation, Acetaminophen for pain relief

Causes and Risk Factors

Causes

  • Cartilage wear and joint aging
  • Previous injury or surgery
  • Excess joint loading

Risk Factors

  • Increasing age
  • Excess body weight
  • Repetitive loading or high-impact activity
  • Family history of joint disease

Symptoms and Signs

  • Pain that worsens with activity
  • Stiffness after rest or in the morning
  • Swelling or tenderness
  • Crepitus (grinding or clicking)
  • Reduced range of motion

Diagnosis

  • Medical history and physical exam
  • X-ray to assess joint space and bone changes
  • MRI to evaluate cartilage and soft tissues

Treatment Overview

FocusDetails
Non-Surgical CareActivity modification and low-impact exercise, Physical therapy for strength and mobility, Weight management to reduce joint load, Bracing or assistive devices
MedicationsNSAIDs for pain and inflammation, Acetaminophen for pain relief, Topical anti-inflammatory medications
InjectionsCorticosteroid injections for flares, Hyaluronic acid injections in selected cases
Surgical OptionsPartial or total knee replacement for advanced disease, Osteotomy for alignment correction

Self-Care and Recovery

  • Regular low-impact activity (walking, cycling, swimming)
  • Ice/heat for symptom relief
  • Supportive footwear

Possible Complications

  • Progressive pain and stiffness
  • Reduced mobility and function
  • Joint deformity over time

FAQs

What is Knee Osteoarthritis?

Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition where cartilage wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced function.

What symptoms are common?

Pain that worsens with activity, Stiffness after rest or in the morning, Swelling or tenderness, Crepitus (grinding or clicking), Reduced range of motion.

How is it diagnosed?

Medical history and physical exam, X-ray to assess joint space and bone changes, MRI to evaluate cartilage and soft tissues.

What treatments are used?

Activity modification and low-impact exercise, Physical therapy for strength and mobility, Weight management to reduce joint load, Bracing or assistive devices, NSAIDs for pain and inflammation, Acetaminophen for pain relief.

When should I seek care?

Seek care for severe pain, swelling, fever, or inability to bear weight, or if symptoms persist despite self-care.