Six signs you could have arthritis of the knee – see your GP

While arthritis can impact any joint, it’s notorious for affecting the knee joint, which can turn into a “serious disability”.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) warned osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and post-traumatic arthritis can all affect the knee.

Osteoarthritis, for example, is a degenerative, “wear-and-tear” type of arthritis most commonly affecting people aged 50 and older.

As the cartilage in the knee joint gradually wears away, the cartilage becomes frayed and rough.

Consequently, the protective space between the bones around the knee decreases resulting in bone grinding against bone, leading to painful bone spurs.

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As for rheumatoid arthritis, both sides of the body are affected, meaning both knee joints will swell, resulting in knee pain and stiffness.

The autoimmune disease is caused by the immune system attacking its own bodily tissues.

When it comes to post-traumatic arthritis, this type of arthritis develops following an injury.

The AAOS elaborated: “For example, a broken bone may damage the joint surface and lead to arthritis years after the injury.”

Even meniscal tears and ligament injuries can result in knee instability and arthritis in later life.

Symptoms of arthritis in the knee

No matter the type of arthritis, there are certain indications of arthritis of the knee.

For instance, the joint may feel stiff and swollen, making it difficult to bend and straighten the knee.

Any painful swelling is likely to be worse first thing in the morning, or after a period of sitting or resting.

Even vigorous activity could spur on a painful episode, or the knee joint may creak, click, snap, or make a grinding noise.

Pain may also cause a feeling of weakness or buckling in the knee if you have arthritis.

“Many people with arthritis note increased joint pain with changes in the weather,” the AAOS adds.

Six signs of arthritis in the knee:

1. Stiff knee
2. Swollen knee
3. Painful knee
4. Creaky knee
5. Buckling of the knee
6. Joint pain during changes of the weather.

If you suspect you might have arthritis, do book a doctor’s appointment.