Knee Arthritis

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Overview

Knee arthritis occurs when the cartilage in the knee joint breaks down, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. Cartilage normally cushions the ends of the bones and allows smooth movement.

There are several types of knee arthritis:

  1. Osteoarthritis – wear and tear of the joint over time
  2. Post-traumatic arthritis – develops after a knee injury
  3. Gout – caused by uric acid crystal buildup in the joint
  4. Rheumatoid arthritis – an autoimmune condition that damages joint tissue
Urban Spine and Joint

Symptoms

Common symptoms of knee arthritis include:

  1. Knee pain that worsens with activity
  2. Swelling in the knee
  3. Stiffness, especially after resting or waking up
  4. Reduced range of motion
  5. A grinding or cracking sensation (crepitus)
  6. Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or bending the knee

Symptoms may develop gradually and worsen over time.

Causes

The cause depends on the type of arthritis.

Common causes and risk factors include:

  1. Age-related wear and tear (osteoarthritis)
  2. Previous knee injuries, such as ligament tears or fractures
  3. Obesity, which increases stress on the knee
  4. Genetic factors or family history
  5. Autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis
  6. Uric acid buildup in gout
  7. Diet, alcohol use, and certain medications (for gout)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis begins with a medical history and physical examination. A doctor will assess pain, swelling, movement, and joint stability.

Diagnostic tests may include:

  1. X-rays to detect cartilage loss and bone spurs
  2. MRI scans to evaluate cartilage, ligaments, and other soft tissues
  3. Blood tests to identify inflammatory or autoimmune conditions
  4. Joint fluid analysis to check for gout or infection

X-rays are commonly used, but symptoms may not always match imaging findings.

Treatment Options

Treatment usually starts with conservative care.

Common treatment options include:

  1. Over-the-counter pain medications
  2. Physical therapy and strengthening exercises
  3. Weight management to reduce joint stress
  4. Heat and cold therapy
  5. Support devices such as braces or orthotics

If symptoms persist, injections may be used, including:

  1. Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
  2. Hyaluronic acid injections to improve joint lubrication

In severe cases, knee replacement surgery may be considered when other treatments no longer provide relief.



When to Seek Evaluation

Persistent lower back pain, neck pain, or radiating nerve pain should not be ignored. Early evaluation allows for proper diagnosis and targeted treatment, helping prevent progression and long-term complications.