Arthritis is a common condition that affects many people, especially as they age. One of the most common areas affected by arthritis is the knee. It is important to recognize the early symptoms of arthritis in the knee so that treatment can begin promptly.
Healthcare providers recommend this procedure to correct the bowlegged alignment of a knee. Treatment for knee arthritis includes lifestyle modifications, medication, and surgery. As knee arthritis worsens, pain becomes more frequent or may become constant with or without activity. Pain with knee arthritis is usually worse after activity, especially with overuse. RA is an immune system disorder where the body attacks the joints and other tissues. Arthroscopic surgery is not often used to treat arthritis of the knee.
In cases where osteoarthritis is accompanied by a degenerative meniscal tear, arthroscopic surgery may be recommended to treat the torn meniscus. Several types of drugs are useful in treating arthritis of the knee. Because people respond differently to medications, your doctor will work closely with you to determine the medications and dosages that are safe and effective for you.
Pain and Swelling
Early-onset osteoarthritis can occur at any age under 50 years old more likely to occur in people with certain risk factors. Listening to your body and having your joint pain checked out early can avoid the complications of a more advanced version of the many forms of arthritis. In many cases, early diagnosis and treatment can delay disease progression and minimize the impact your condition has on your daily life. With osteoarthritis, for early treatment to be successful, it needs to be identified before the development of joint damage, substantial cartilage loss, or malalignment.
Additionally, symptomatic knee OA may affect up to 40% of people over 70 years old. A wide range of treatments, from OTC medications to knee replacement surgery, are available to help relieve knee pain caused by OA. Joint stiffness is normal when you first wake up or have been sitting at your desk all day. That wooden feeling that makes you feel sluggish and slow might make you want to head back to bed, but resist the urge.
Pain and swelling are often the first signs of arthritis in the knee. The pain may be constant or come and go, and it can range from mild to severe. Swelling occurs as a result of inflammation in the joint, causing the knee to appear larger than usual.
You may begin to lose some of the cartilage between your joints. However, the space between your joints wouldn’t be getting smaller at this point. You may start to develop bone spurs, which are growths on the ends of the bones. It can take anywhere from several months to several years to reach an advanced stage of OA. Your medical provider will assess your symptoms, X-rays, blood tests, and other laboratory tests to define your OA stage and subsequent treatment plan.
You may need to wear a brace, shoe insert, wrap, or knee support. Your practitioner may recommend OTC medications, such as NSAIDs, for pain. You may also need to make lifestyle changes, like losing weight and doing low-impact exercises.
Stiffness and Limited Range of Motion
Stiffness in the knee joint, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity, is another common symptom of arthritis. This stiffness can make it difficult to bend or straighten the knee fully, leading to a limited range of motion.
Crepitus
Crepitus is a distinctive symptom of arthritis in the knee. It is characterized by a grinding or popping sensation when moving the knee joint. This is caused by the roughening of the cartilage surfaces within the joint.
Instability and Weakness
As arthritis progresses, the knee joint may become unstable and feel like it might give out when walking or standing. This instability can lead to weakness in the surrounding muscles as they try to compensate for the lack of support in the joint.
Tenderness to Touch
The area around the knee joint may be tender to touch in cases of arthritis. This tenderness can be felt on the sides of the knee or directly over the joint itself. It is important not to ignore this symptom as it could indicate underlying inflammation.
Recognizing these early symptoms of arthritis in the knee is crucial for getting prompt treatment and managing the condition effectively. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
