Knee Arthritis

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of knee arthritis. Often referred to as “wear-and-tear” arthritis, it develops when the protective cartilage covering the ends of the bones gradually breaks down over time.

As the cartilage wears away, the joint space narrows and bones may begin to rub against one another. This can lead to pain, stiffness, inflammation, and the development of bone spurs. Osteoarthritis typically progresses gradually and becomes more common with age.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Post-traumatic arthritis develops after an injury to the knee, such as a fracture, ligament tear, or meniscus injury. Even when the initial injury heals successfully, damage to the joint surfaces can increase wear and tear over time, leading to arthritis years later.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to attack healthy joint tissue. This inflammatory condition often affects both knees and can result in pain, swelling, stiffness, and progressive joint damage if left untreated.

• Age, particularly after age 45
• Previous knee injuries
• Repetitive stress on the knee joint
• Excess body weight
• Family history of arthritis
• Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis
• Participation in activities that place ongoing stress on the knees

Women are also more likely than men to develop certain forms of arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis.

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Knee pain during or after activity
• Pain when standing up after sitting
• Stiffness or reduced range of motion
• Difficulty fully bending or straightening the knee
• Swelling around the joint
• A feeling of fullness or fluid in the knee
• Grinding, popping, clicking, or snapping sensations (crepitus)
• Knee weakness or instability
• Discomfort while walking, climbing stairs, or exercising

As arthritis progresses, everyday activities may become increasingly difficult and painful.

Nonsurgical Treatment for Knee Arthritis

Most patients begin with conservative treatment options before considering surgery.

Nonsurgical treatments may include:

• Activity modification
• Weight management
• Physical therapy
• Home exercise programs
• Knee braces or supportive devices
• Heat and cold therapy
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Corticosteroid injections
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections

Physical therapy can be particularly beneficial by strengthening the muscles surrounding the knee, improving flexibility, and reducing stress on the joint.

Knee Arthritis Surgery

When nonsurgical treatment no longer provides adequate relief, surgical intervention may be recommended.

Depending on the severity of arthritis, surgical options may include:

• Cartilage restoration procedures for select patients
• Synovectomy for inflammatory arthritis
• Osteotomy to redistribute weight across the knee joint
• Partial knee replacement
• Total knee replacement

Your orthopedic surgeon will discuss the most appropriate surgical option based on your symptoms, imaging results, lifestyle, and goals.

Knee Arthritis Recovery and Outlook

Recovery varies based on the severity of arthritis and the treatment plan followed.

Some patients achieve significant symptom relief through physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and injection therapies. For those requiring joint replacement surgery, modern techniques and rehabilitation programs have helped patients return to many daily activities with less pain and improved function. With today’s implants, most surgical patients will not need revision for 20 years or more.

Early treatment often produces the best outcomes by slowing progression and maintaining mobility for as long as possible.