Knee Arthritis

Knee arthritis is a common condition that causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee joint. It can make everyday activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods, more difficult and, in some cases, limit mobility and quality of life.

While there is no cure for arthritis, there are many effective treatment options available to help manage symptoms, reduce pain, and keep you active.

Understanding the Knee Joint

The knee is the largest and strongest joint in the body. It is made up of:

• The femur (thighbone)
• The tibia (shinbone)
• The patella (kneecap)

The ends of these bones are covered with articular cartilage, a smooth, protective surface that allows the joint to move with minimal friction. Two additional pieces of cartilage, called the meniscus, act as shock absorbers between the femur and tibia, helping to cushion and stabilize the joint. The joint is surrounded by the synovial membrane, which produces fluid to lubricate the joint and reduce friction during movement.

What Is Knee Arthritis?

Arthritis is inflammation of one or more joints. In the knee, this inflammation typically results from damage to the cartilage that protects the joint.

The most common types of knee arthritis include:

• Osteoarthritis: A degenerative condition caused by wear and tear over time
• Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the joint

Although arthritis is most common in adults, some forms can affect younger individuals.

Symptoms of Knee Arthritis

Knee arthritis symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen over time. Common symptoms include:

• Pain with activity or after movement
• Swelling or inflammation
• Stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of rest
• Decreased range of motion
• Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or standing

Knee arthritis is a leading cause of disability and lost work time for many individuals.

Treatment Options

Treatment for knee arthritis focuses on reducing pain, improving function, and maintaining mobility.

Non-Surgical Treatment

Many patients can successfully manage symptoms without surgery. Options may include:

• Activity modification
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Physical therapy to improve strength and joint stability
• Injections to reduce pain and inflammation

Low-impact activities such as walking, cycling, or swimming are often encouraged to help maintain joint health.

Surgical Treatment

When non-surgical treatments no longer provide relief, knee replacement surgery may be recommended. Knee replacement is an effective option for restoring function and relieving pain by replacing damaged joint surfaces with prosthetic components.

For more information, visit our Hip & Knee Replacement page.

Frequently Asked Questions