The Causes and Symptoms of Knee Arthritis and Treatment Options

At Atlanta Bone and Joint Specialists, we see many patients suffering from knee arthritis—a condition that can significantly impact mobility, comfort, and quality of life. Understanding the root causes and early signs of knee arthritis is essential for timely treatment and long-term joint health. This article will explore what leads to knee arthritis, how to recognize its symptoms, and the available treatment options for managing the condition.

Understanding Knee Arthritis

Knee arthritis refers to inflammation and deterioration of the knee joint. It commonly occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced movement.

Types of Knee Arthritis

There are several types of arthritis that can affect the knee:

Osteoarthritis (OA)

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of knee arthritis. It is a degenerative joint disease that results from the gradual wear and tear of cartilage. OA typically affects people over the age of 50, but it can also develop earlier due to injury or genetics.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks the synovial membrane that lines the joints. This chronic inflammation can eventually damage cartilage and bone.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis

This type of arthritis can develop after a knee injury such as a fracture, ligament tear, or meniscus damage. Over time, the injury may alter joint mechanics and contribute to cartilage breakdown.

Gout and Pseudogout

Gout results from the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joint, while pseudogout involves calcium pyrophosphate crystals. Both can cause episodes of severe knee pain and inflammation.

Common Causes of Knee Arthritis

Several risk factors can contribute to the development of knee arthritis:

• Age: Risk increases with age, especially over 50.
• ​Genetics: A family history of arthritis can raise your likelihood of developing this condition.
• Previous Injuries: Knee trauma, such as ACL tears or fractures, can lead to arthritis later in life.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts more pressure on the knees, accelerating cartilage wear.
• Repetitive Stress: Jobs or sports that involve frequent kneeling, squatting, or lifting can strain the knee joint.
• Inflammatory Conditions: Autoimmune diseases increase arthritis risk.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Early detection is critical to managing knee arthritis effectively. If you experience the following symptoms, it may be time to seek medical evaluation:
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• Persistent knee pain during or after activity
• Joint stiffness, particularly after waking up or sitting for long periods
• Swelling or tenderness around the knee joint
• Reduced range of motion or difficulty bending the knee fully
• Grinding or popping sounds with movement
• Knee instability or the feeling that the joint may give out

​Symptoms often progress gradually, but sudden flare-ups can occur, especially in cases of inflammatory arthritis.

Diagnostic Process at Atlanta Bone and Joint Specialists

When you visit Atlanta Bone and Joint Specialists with knee pain, our team will conduct a thorough assessment to diagnose the underlying cause.

Diagnostic Tools May Include:

• Physical examination to assess joint movement, swelling, and alignment.
• X-rays to visualize joint space narrowing, bone spurs, and alignment issues.
• MRI scans to detect cartilage loss, soft tissue damage, or inflammation.
• Blood tests to identify markers for autoimmune disorders like RA or Gout.

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​Accurate diagnosis is the foundation for creating a personalized treatment plan that addresses both symptoms and root causes.

Treatment Options for Knee Arthritis

Treatment varies depending on the severity of the arthritis, the type, and the patient’s overall health. At Atlanta Bone and Joint Specialists, we prioritize conservative approaches whenever possible but also offer advanced surgical care when needed.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

For many patients, non-surgical methods can significantly reduce symptoms and improve function:

Medications

• Over-the-counter NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen) for pain relief
  
• Prescription anti-inflammatory or disease-modifying drugs for RA
  
• Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections for short-term symptom relief

Physical Therapy

Custom-designed physical therapy programs help:

• Improve strength in the surrounding muscles.
• Increase joint flexibility and stability.
• Reduce stress on the knee joint.

​Our in-house therapy team works closely with patients to ensure a safe, effective recovery.

Lifestyle Modifications

• Weight management to reduce joint stress
  
• Low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling
  
• Use of assistive devices such as knee braces or orthotic footwear

Surgical Treatment Options

If non-surgical treatments are no longer effective, surgery may be recommended.

Arthroscopy

Minimally invasive procedure to remove loose cartilage or repair minor joint damage.

Osteotomy

A procedure that realigns the bones to shift weight away from the damaged part of the knee.

Partial or Total Knee Replacement

In advanced cases, knee replacement surgery may be the best option. Our orthopedic surgeons use state-of-the-art techniques to replace damaged joint surfaces with prosthetic components that restore mobility and reduce pain.

Long-Term Management and Outlook

Knee arthritis is a chronic condition, but with the right treatment and lifestyle strategies, many patients can maintain an active, fulfilling life. The key is to address symptoms early, follow medical advice consistently, and stay engaged in appropriate physical activity.

At Atlanta Bone and Joint Specialists, we’re committed to providing personalized care to help our patients manage knee arthritis and regain their mobility. Whether you're just noticing symptoms or seeking alternatives after years of discomfort, our experienced team is here to support you every step of the way.
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Don't let knee arthritis slow you down. Schedule a consultation with Atlanta Bone and Joint Specialists today and take your first step toward lasting joint relief and a better quality of life.