Overview
Knee arthritis is the gradual loss of the cartilage that cushions the knee joint. It is one of the most common causes of knee pain in adults and may be degenerative or inflammatory.
Many people manage knee arthritis with strengthening exercises, weight management, bracing and medication. Image-guided injections are an option for some patients. Surgical options are discussed when conservative care is not enough.
Watch: Knee Arthritis explained
Video: “Osteoarthritis of the Knee” from OrthoInfo on YouTube. It loads from youtube-nocookie.com only when you press play. Shown for general education; GSMC did not produce it. Watch on YouTube
Common symptoms
- Knee pain with walking or stairs
- Stiffness after rest
- Swelling
- Grinding or creaking
- Reduced ability to bend or straighten the knee
Causes and risk factors
- Age-related wear
- Previous knee injury or meniscus tear
- Excess body weight
- Alignment problems
- Inflammatory arthritis
How it is diagnosed
Your clinician will review your history, examine the joint and may order X-rays, ultrasound, MRI or blood tests to look for inflammation or other causes.
Treatment options
Care is stepped: most people start with self-care and physical therapy, and move to the next step only if pain continues. Some problems, such as nerve weakness, may skip ahead. Your exam, imaging and goals decide which options fit you.
Self-care and lifestyle
Walking or water exercise, quad strengthening and weight loss may reduce knee pain.
Physical therapy and medications
Physical therapy, a brace or cane, and medicines that are safe for you.
Injections and nerve blocks
Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections may ease symptoms.
Minimally invasive procedures
Genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation may help selected patients; PRP is an evolving, usually self-pay option.
Surgical evaluation
Arthroscopy for specific problems or joint replacement referral for advanced arthritis.
Learn how we approach care: our care philosophy · nonsurgical options · second opinions.
When to seek urgent care
Seek prompt care for a hot, red, swollen joint with fever, inability to bear weight after an injury, sudden severe symptoms, or any symptom that worries you.
Frequently asked questions
Do injections help knee arthritis?
Steroid, hyaluronic acid and PRP injections are used for knee arthritis. Benefit varies between patients and between injection types. Your clinician will discuss the evidence and coverage.
Will I need a knee replacement?
Not everyone does. GSMC does not perform joint replacement, but we can help manage symptoms and discuss referral if replacement becomes appropriate.
Is exercise safe with knee arthritis?
Yes, in most cases. Strengthening the muscles around the knee is one of the most recommended treatments.
This page is general patient education and does not replace advice from your own clinician. Individual results vary.