Arthritis is a condition that affects any joint in the body. Knees are among the most commonly affected joints. Knee arthritis can cause pain, stiffness, redness, and swelling in and around the knee joint(s). The two most common types of knee arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis, also known as wear-and-tear arthritis, causes a breakdown in the cartilage around the knee. Rheumatoid arthritis involves the breaking down of the lining of the joints (called the synovium).
Knee arthritis can lead to mobility problems, including difficulty walking. Knee pain with arthritis may vary from person to person, and one person may experience more than one type of pain. Some types of knee pain associated with arthritis include aching, dull, sharp, and stabbing. Arthritis can also cause stiffness in the knee.
Symptoms of knee arthritis
The most common signs and symptoms of knee arthritis are:
- Pain in and around the knee (pain may increase with use and decrease with rest)
- Swelling around the knee joint
- Joint stiffness in one or both knees, which is usually worse when getting out of bed or standing up after sitting for a while
- A crunchy or crackly sound when moving the knee(s)
- Mobility issues, like difficulty getting up from a sitting position, walking, and climbing stairs
Diagnosing arthritis of the knee
If you have signs of symptoms of arthritis in your knee, you should see a doctor to be evaluated. Your doctor will ask you about your medical and family history. They will also likely check your knees for swelling, redness and warmth and evaluate your range of motion. To diagnose knee arthritis, your doctor may order tests, which may include:
- Lab tests, such as:
- Blood tests
- Joint fluid tests
- Imaging tests, such as:
Beaumont offers treatments for knee arthritis
Beaumont knee specialists will work with you to treat the signs and symptoms of arthritis in your knee. Treatment will depend upon the severity and type of your symptoms. It may involve:
- Physical therapy to help strengthen your knees and improve range of motion
- Occupational therapy to help you learn how to do daily activities while protecting your knee, reducing pain, and improving function
- Knee braces, including support braces and unloader braces
- Medication, such as:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Motrin)
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Creams and ointments, such as capsaicin
- Corticosteroids to help decrease inflammation and reduce pain
- Hyaluronic acid injections to help lubricate joints
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologics if you have arthritis due to an autoimmune disease
- Alternative therapy, such as:
- Massage
- Acupuncture or acupressure
- Yoga
- Lifestyle changes, such as:
- Losing weight to help reduce stress on your knees
- Rest and/or heat and ice therapy
- Exercise to help keep your knees strong and flexible
- Assistive devices to help with mobility
- Surgery
- Knee repair
- Knee replacement
- Arthroscopy
Learn more about:
- Knee pain management
- Physical therapy
- Mobility issues
Orthopedic surgeons at Beaumont successfully treat knee arthritis
Some people who have arthritic knees require surgery to get relief from the symptoms. Knee surgery to treat arthritis may relieve pain and improve mobility, restoring functionality and improving your quality of life.
Make an appointment at Beaumont
If you have knee pain or other symptoms of knee arthritis, contact Beaumont to make an appointment. Our specialists offer a full range of treatments for patients of all ages and all types of joint pain and dysfunction. No matter which type of knee arthritis you have, we have a team of specialists ready to determine the best treatment option for you.
Call us at 800-633-7377 to make an appointment.