Knee pain is one of the most common complaints among people of all ages. Whether it’s due to a long day of standing, an old injury, or overuse during workouts, most of us have experienced some form of knee discomfort.
However, when the pain becomes persistent or gradually worsens, it could be a sign of something more serious like arthritis. Understanding the early signs of arthritis in the knee can help you take timely steps to manage the condition effectively and maintain your joint health.
Understanding Arthritis in the Knee
Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation of the joints. When it affects the knee, it can lead to stiffness, swelling, and difficulty in performing daily activities. The two most common types of arthritis that affect the knee are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that usually develops with age or after repetitive stress on the knee joint. It causes the cartilage, the cushioning tissue between the bones, to wear down, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks the joint lining, causing inflammation, pain, and eventually joint damage.
Both types can severely affect knee mobility if not addressed in time. Recognising the early signs can make a big difference in treatment outcomes.
Early Symptoms to Watch For
Many people ignore the initial signs of arthritis, thinking it’s just temporary discomfort. However, being aware of the early symptoms can help in catching the condition before it worsens.
Morning Stiffness
If your knees feel stiff and difficult to move when you wake up, especially if this stiffness lasts more than 30 minutes, it could be a sign of early arthritis.
Swelling Around the Knee Joint
Inflammation may cause visible swelling or a feeling of tightness around the knee. This is often a result of fluid buildup and joint irritation.
Pain That Comes and Goes
Intermittent pain, especially after long periods of activity, can indicate early osteoarthritis. The pain may disappear after rest but return when the joint is used again.
Grinding or Popping Sensation
If you hear or feel grinding, clicking, or popping sounds when you move your knee, it could signal that the cartilage is wearing down.
Limited Range of Motion
Difficulty bending or straightening the knee, or a feeling that your knee is locking or not working anymore, are major indicators of joint dysfunction.
Pain That Worsens With Activity
Pain during walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods is a common early symptom of knee arthritis.
These signs may develop gradually and may initially be mild, which is why they are often overlooked. However, even mild symptoms should not be ignored, especially if they persist for several weeks.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Many people try to push through the pain or self-treat their knee discomfort with over-the-counter medications. While these may offer temporary relief, they don’t address the underlying issue.
Early diagnosis of arthritis can help you:
- Slow the progression of the disease through appropriate treatment and lifestyle changes.
- Reduce joint damage and preserve mobility.
- Manage pain effectively without the need for surgical procedures.
- Avoid surgery by starting conservative care at the right time.
Timely medical attention allows your doctor or physiotherapist to develop a personalised treatment plan that may include exercise therapy, weight management, non-surgical treatments like knee decompression, and ergonomic modifications.
Lifestyle Adjustments That Help
If you’re experiencing early signs of arthritis, the good news is that you don’t always need surgery. Many people manage their symptoms and slow down progression through:
Regular Low-Impact Exercise
Activities like walking, swimming, or cycling can strengthen the muscles around the knee without putting too much stress on the joint.
Weight Management
Carrying excess weight puts extra pressure on the knee joints, especially during activities like walking or climbing stairs.
Healthy Diet
Anti-inflammatory foods like berries, fatty fish, green leafy vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce joint inflammation.
Proper Footwear
Supportive shoes reduce strain on the knees and improve overall joint alignment.
Posture Correction
Correcting your posture, especially when sitting or standing for long periods, can reduce the abnormal load on the knee joints.
Avoid High-Impact Activities
Jumping or running on hard surfaces can accelerate cartilage wear and tear.
When to Seek Medical Help
While mild knee discomfort isn’t always serious, you should consult a healthcare professional if you notice:
- Pain that lasts more than a few weeks
- Swelling that doesn’t subside with rest
- Inability to fully straighten or bend the knee
- Weakness or instability in the knee
- Pain that interferes with your sleep or day-to-day work
An orthopaedic specialist can assess your condition using physical exams and imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs to confirm whether arthritis is the cause of your symptoms.
About ANSSI:
ANSSI Wellness focuses on improving the quality of life for patients suffering from knee issues, aiming to provide relief where other conventional treatments have failed. Through advanced non-surgical knee decompression treatment, ANSSI is committed to helping patients avoid surgery and recover in a safe, effective, and compassionate environment.
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