Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis is a common condition that can cause knee pain, stiffness and difficulty with everyday movement. Understanding the symptoms and available treatment options can help you make informed decisions about your joint health.
What is knee osteoarthritis?
Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition in which the cartilage and other structures within the knee gradually undergo changes. It may lead to pain, stiffness, swelling and reduced mobility.
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, examination findings and the individual's functional needs.
Understanding Knee Arthritis
The knee is a complex joint that allows us to walk, climb stairs, sit, stand and perform many everyday activities. Over time, changes within the joint can affect how smoothly it moves and how much load it can comfortably tolerate.
Knee osteoarthritis may develop gradually. Some people experience mild symptoms initially, while others may notice increasing pain, stiffness or difficulty with activities such as walking, climbing stairs or getting up from a chair.
An orthopaedic evaluation can help determine the likely cause of knee symptoms and whether lifestyle changes, rehabilitation, medication, injections or surgical treatment may be appropriate.
Knee joint
Pain, stiffness and reduced movement
Clinical evaluation and imaging when required
Depends on symptoms and individual needs
Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis
Symptoms can vary between individuals and may develop gradually over time.
Knee Pain
Pain may occur during walking, climbing stairs, standing for long periods or other weight-bearing activities.
Joint Stiffness
Stiffness may be more noticeable after periods of inactivity or when getting up after sitting.
Swelling
Some people may experience swelling around the knee, particularly after increased activity.
Reduced Mobility
Knee movement may become more restricted, affecting activities such as squatting or bending.
Difficulty With Stairs
Activities such as climbing or descending stairs may become increasingly uncomfortable.
Grinding or Clicking Sensation
Some individuals may notice clicking, grinding or other sensations while moving the knee.
Causes & Risk Factors
Knee osteoarthritis can result from a combination of factors rather than one single cause. Age-related changes, previous injuries and the amount of stress placed on the knee can all play a role.
Having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean that a person will develop osteoarthritis. An individual assessment is important when symptoms are persistent.
How Is Knee Osteoarthritis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually begins with understanding your symptoms and examining the knee. Additional investigations may be recommended when clinically appropriate.
Medical History
Your symptoms, duration of pain, previous injuries and effect on daily activities are discussed.
Physical Examination
The knee may be assessed for movement, tenderness, swelling, stability and functional limitations.
Imaging
X-rays or other imaging may be recommended depending on the clinical situation and suspected diagnosis.
Treatment Planning
Findings are considered together to determine an appropriate management approach.
Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment
Treatment is individualised according to symptoms, examination findings, functional goals and the severity of joint changes.
Activity Modification
Adjusting activities that aggravate symptoms may help reduce stress on the knee while maintaining appropriate movement.
Physiotherapy & Exercise
A structured exercise and rehabilitation programme may help improve strength, flexibility and function.
Medication
Depending on the individual's situation, a doctor may recommend appropriate medicines for managing pain and inflammation.
Injections
Certain injectable treatments may be considered for selected patients after clinical evaluation.
Weight Management
For people who are overweight, appropriate weight management may reduce load placed on the knee joint.
Surgical Treatment
When symptoms are severe and other treatment options are no longer providing adequate relief, surgery may be considered based on individual circumstances.
Explore Knee Treatments →When Should You See an Orthopaedic Doctor?
Consider an orthopaedic consultation if knee pain persists, repeatedly returns or begins to interfere with your everyday activities.
Book a Consultation →Knee pain that continues despite rest
Increasing difficulty walking or climbing stairs
Persistent stiffness or reduced movement
Recurrent swelling or discomfort
Knee symptoms affecting sleep or daily life
Frequently Asked Questions
What is knee osteoarthritis? +
Knee osteoarthritis is a condition involving progressive changes within the knee joint that can result in pain, stiffness and reduced movement. The severity and symptoms can vary between people.
What are the common symptoms of knee osteoarthritis? +
Common symptoms can include knee pain, stiffness, swelling, reduced range of movement, difficulty with stairs and discomfort during weight-bearing activities.
Can knee osteoarthritis be treated without surgery? +
Depending on the severity and individual circumstances, non-surgical management may include exercise, physiotherapy, activity modification, weight management and appropriate medication. Other treatments may also be considered.
Is knee replacement always required for arthritis? +
No. Knee replacement is not automatically required for everyone with osteoarthritis. It may be considered when symptoms are significant, joint damage is advanced and other appropriate treatments are no longer providing sufficient improvement.
How is knee arthritis diagnosed? +
Diagnosis generally involves a medical history, physical examination and, when appropriate, imaging such as X-rays. Additional investigations may be recommended depending on the clinical situation.
Can exercise help with knee osteoarthritis? +
Appropriate physical activity and strengthening exercises can be an important part of managing knee osteoarthritis for many people. The type and intensity of exercise should be appropriate for the individual's condition and abilities.
When should I see an orthopaedic specialist for knee pain? +
Consider an evaluation if knee pain is persistent, recurrent or interfering with walking, stairs, exercise, sleep or other everyday activities.
Don't Let Knee Pain Limit Your Everyday Life.
Get your knee symptoms evaluated and understand the treatment options that may be appropriate for your condition.