Knee Arthritis

Knee arthritis is a common condition that causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the knee joint. Our orthopedic specialists can help you find answers and guide you towards relieving your pain.

Knee Arthritis

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Introduction

It typically develops slowly over time and can make everyday activities, like walking, climbing stairs, or standing up, more difficult. With proper diagnosis and treatment, many people can manage their symptoms and maintain an active lifestyle.

How Does Arthritis Happen?

Arthritis occurs when the smooth cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones in your knee begins to wear down. This cartilage normally helps the joint move easily and absorbs shock. As it deteriorates, the bones may rub against each other, causing irritation, inflammation, pain, and decreased mobility. Age, prior injuries, genetics, and repetitive joint stress can all contribute to the development of knee arthritis.

How Do I Know if I Have Knee Arthritis?

Common signs of knee arthritis include:

Pain or stiffness after activity or periods of rest
Swelling around the knee
A feeling of grinding, catching, or popping inside the joint
Trouble fully bending or straightening the knee
Pain that worsens with walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods
A sense of the knee “giving out” or feeling unstable

A medical evaluation, often including X-rays and a physical exam, can confirm the diagnosis.

Treatments for Knee Arthritis

Most people can manage knee arthritis with non-surgical treatments, such as:

Activity modification to avoid movements that worsen symptoms
Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling
Physical therapy to strengthen supporting muscles and improve joint mobility
Weight management, which can decrease pressure on the joints
Assistive devices, such as braces or canes, to reduce strain
Injections, such as corticosteroids or viscosupplementation, to provide temporary relief

These treatments focus on reducing pain, improving function, and slowing the progression of arthritis. More severe cases, or patients who have failed non-surgical treatments, may be candidates for knee replacement surgery.

Should I Get a Partial or Total Knee Replacement?

If knee arthritis becomes severe and non-surgical treatments no longer provide relief, a knee replacement may be recommended. The type depends on the extent of joint damage:

Partial knee replacement is an option when arthritis affects only one part of the knee. This procedure preserves more of your natural bone and ligaments and often allows for a quicker recovery.
Total knee replacement is recommended when arthritis involves multiple areas of the knee. The entire joint surface is replaced with smooth, durable components that help restore movement and reduce pain.

Your surgeon will help determine which option best fits your condition, lifestyle, and goals.

Recovery After Knee Replacement

Recovery varies from person to person, but most patients begin standing and walking with assistance shortly after surgery. Physical therapy plays a major role in regaining strength, mobility, and confidence. Over the following weeks and months, pain improves and movement becomes easier. Many patients return to daily activities—and enjoy a more active, comfortable life—once healing is complete.

References

Brophy RH, Fillingham YA. AAOS Clinical Practice Guideline Summary: Management of Osteoarthritis of the Knee (Nonarthroplasty), Third Edition. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2022;30(9):e721-e729. doi:10.5435/JAAOS-D-21-01233.

Yates AJ, McGrory BJ, Starz TW, et al. AAOS Appropriate Use Criteria: Optimizing the Non-Arthroplasty Management of Osteoarthritis of the Knee. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2014;22(4):261-267. doi:10.5435/JAAOS-22-04-261.

Katz JN, Arant KR, Loeser RF. Diagnosis and Treatment of Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis: A Review. JAMA. 2021;325(6):568-578. doi:10.1001/jama.2020.22171.