5 Key Signs You Might Have Knee Arthritis

Knee arthritis affects millions of people worldwide, causing discomfort and limiting daily activities. If you have been experiencing persistent knee pain, it might be a sign that arthritis is developing in your knee joint. Recognizing the early signs can help you seek timely orthopedic care and manage symptoms effectively. This post highlights five key signs that suggest you might have knee arthritis.

1. Persistent Knee Pain That Worsens Over Time

One of the most common signs of knee arthritis is ongoing knee pain that does not go away with rest. This pain often starts as mild discomfort but gradually intensifies. You may notice the pain:

• Occurs during or after physical activity

• Feels worse at the end of the day

• Becomes more frequent and severe over weeks or months

  
  

This pain results from the gradual breakdown of cartilage in the knee joint, causing bones to rub against each other. If you experience knee pain that persists for several weeks, it is important to consult an orthopedic specialist for evaluation.

2. Stiffness and Reduced Range of Motion

Knee arthritis often causes stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity such as sitting or sleeping. You might find it difficult to fully bend or straighten your knee. This stiffness can last from a few minutes to several hours and may improve with gentle movement.

Reduced range of motion can make everyday tasks like climbing stairs, squatting, or walking challenging. If you notice your knee feels "locked" or less flexible than before, this could be a sign of arthritis progression.

3. Swelling and Tenderness Around the Knee

Inflammation is a natural response to joint damage caused by arthritis. Swelling around the knee joint is a clear indicator that your body is reacting to irritation inside the joint. The swelling may be accompanied by:

• Warmth to the touch

• Tenderness when pressing around the knee

• Visible puffiness compared to the other knee

  
  

Swelling can fluctuate, sometimes worsening after activity or prolonged standing. If swelling becomes persistent or severe, it is important to seek orthopedic advice to prevent further joint damage.

4. A Grinding or Popping Sensation

Many people with knee arthritis report hearing or feeling a grinding, popping, or clicking sensation when moving the knee. This happens because the smooth cartilage that cushions the joint wears away, causing rough surfaces to rub together.

This sensation, known as crepitus, is often harmless but can indicate cartilage loss. If the grinding is accompanied by pain or swelling, it is a sign that the arthritis is affecting joint function and should be assessed by an orthopedic professional.

5. Weakness and Instability in the Knee - Potential Signs of Knee Arthritis

Arthritis can weaken the muscles around the knee, leading to instability or a feeling that the knee might "give out." This can make walking or standing difficult and increase the risk of falls.

You might notice:

• Difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg

• A sensation of the knee buckling during movement

• Reduced ability to perform activities that require knee strength

  
  

Muscle weakness often develops because pain causes you to avoid using the knee fully. Physical therapy and orthopedic treatment can help strengthen the muscles and improve stability.

Recognizing these five signs early can help you take control of knee arthritis before it severely impacts your quality of life. If you experience persistent knee pain, stiffness, swelling, grinding sensations, or instability, consider scheduling an appointment with an orthopedic specialist. Early diagnosis and treatment can slow arthritis progression and improve your mobility.