What is knee osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. In the knee it can affect the inner side, the outer side or the area behind the kneecap — or the whole joint. Which parts are affected helps decide which treatments may suit you.
Causes and risk factors
Age — it becomes more common after 50
A previous knee injury or operation
Being overweight, which increases load on the knee
Family history of osteoarthritis
Jobs or sports that involve heavy kneeling or lifting
Symptoms
Pain that is worse with activity and eases with rest
Stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting
Swelling and a grinding or crackling feeling
Difficulty with stairs, kneeling or getting out of a chair
| Go to A&E or call 111 if | Possible cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Hot, red, swollen knee with fever | Possible infection | Call 111 or go to A&E |
| Knee suddenly unable to bear weight after a fall | Possible fracture | Go to A&E |
When to see a specialist
See a specialist if knee pain affects your sleep, walking or work for more than a few weeks, or if exercise, weight loss and pain relief are no longer helping. You can book directly or ask your GP to refer you.
How it is diagnosed
A conversation about your symptoms and what you would like to be able to do
An examination of your knee, hip and walking
X-rays taken standing, and sometimes an MRI scan
Treatment options
Self-care and exercise
Strengthening exercises and staying active.
Physiotherapy
A guided programme to improve strength and movement.
Injections
Steroid injections can ease painful flare-ups.
Partial or total knee replacement
When pain limits daily life despite other treatment.
Living with knee arthritis
Knee arthritis usually changes slowly. Many people manage well for years with exercise and weight management. If symptoms progress, surgery can be planned at a time that suits you.
Why see Mr Reddy
Explains every option: non-surgical treatment is always discussed first
One surgeon throughout: from your first consultation to your final follow-up
NHS consultant: Trauma & Orthopaedics, University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay
Verified patient feedback: rated 5.0 on iWantGreatCare from 16 reviews
