Arthritis in the knee can cause stiffness, swelling, and pain, making it difficult to walk, climb stairs, or perform everyday activities. Whether due to aging, injury, or an autoimmune disease, knee arthritis can have a significant impact on your mobility and quality of life.
At Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine, we provide expert care for arthritis in knee joints in Granville and Coshocton, Ohio. Contact us today to see how we can help!
The knee joint is one of the body’s largest and most complex joints. It connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia) and includes the kneecap (patella).
The joint is supported by ligaments, tendons, and muscles, while articular cartilage covers the ends of the bones, allowing smooth movement. When this cartilage wears down, the knee becomes stiff and painful, leading to conditions like osteoarthritis of the knee.
Knee arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation, stiffness, and pain in the knee joint. The most common type is knee osteoarthritis, which results from cartilage degeneration over time. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder, can also affect the knee, leading to swelling and damage to the joint lining. In some cases, past injuries or genetic factors contribute to developing knee arthritis.
There are several factors that contribute to arthritis knee pain, including:
Knee arthritis symptoms often develop gradually and worsen over time. These may include:
A specialist will diagnose knee arthritis through a physical examination to assess joint movement, swelling, and tenderness.
Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, help evaluate the extent of cartilage damage and rule out other conditions.
Blood tests may be used to detect inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Treating knee arthritis involves a combination of non-surgical and surgical options, depending on the severity of the condition.
Many patients find relief through conservative treatments, including:
If conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical options may be considered:
The long-term outlook for knee arthritis depends on the severity of joint damage and how well treatment is followed. While osteoarthritis of the knee is a progressive condition, early intervention can help slow its progression and improve mobility. With proper care, including physical therapy and lifestyle adjustments, many patients successfully manage their symptoms and maintain an active lifestyle.
If knee pain is interfering with your daily life, Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine offers expert care in Granville and Coshocton, OH. Whether you need conservative treatment or surgical options like partial knee replacement, our specialists can help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
Medically reviewed by Eric Erb, MD
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