What Does Arthritis In The Knee Feel Like? And Other FAQs

Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. One of the most commonly affected joints is the knee. In this article, we will explore the symptoms of knee arthritis and answer some frequently asked questions about the condition.

New York Knee Pain Doctor is a group of state-of-the-art medical centers specializing in knee pain treatments in New York. Our team is led by board-certified interventional pain specialists who use cutting-edge diagnostic and imaging techniques to identify and treat the root cause of your knee pain and symptoms. We have offices in Midtown Manhattan, close to Central Park, and a short walk from the Seaport in the Financial District. Please schedule an appointment with your nearest knee pain doctor in New York if you have the symptoms of knee arthritis.

Arthritis in the knee can cause a variety of symptoms including:

• Pain: This can be a dull or sharp pain that may be felt in the joint or around it. The pain may be worse after sitting or standing for long periods of time, or after physical activity.
• Stiffness: The knee may feel stiff, particularly in the morning or after sitting for a while.
• Swelling: The knee may be swollen and tender to the touch.
• Reduced Mobility: It may be difficult to fully straighten or bend the knee joint.
• Crunching or Popping Sounds: Some people with knee arthritis may hear these sounds when they move their knee.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, and may not be present all the time. In some cases, the pain may be mild and only occur occasionally, while in other cases, it may be severe and constant. Additionally, the symptoms may come and go, and may not be present all the time.

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

1. Osteoarthritis: This is the most common type of knee arthritis. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the bones in the knee wears down over time, leading to bone-on-bone contact.
2. Rheumatoid arthritis: This is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in the joints. It can affect any joint in the body, including the knee.
3. Post-traumatic arthritis: This type of arthritis develops after an injury to the knee, such as a broken bone or ligament tear.
4. Septic arthritis: This is a bacterial or viral infection in the joint. It is a medical emergency and should be treated as soon as possible.
5. Gout: This is a type of arthritis caused by a build-up of uric acid crystals in the joint. It can cause sudden, severe pain and swelling in the knee.

It’s important to note that some people may have more than one type of arthritis affecting their knee. A proper diagnosis from a doctor is necessary to determine the type of arthritis you have.

Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing knee arthritis at a young age, such as:

• Previous injury or trauma to the knee
• Overuse of the knee, such as in athletes or people who engage in physical labor
• Obesity or carrying excess weight, which puts additional strain on the knee
• Genetics: some people have a family history of arthritis

It’s important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing knee pain and stiffness, especially if you are a young adult or child. A proper diagnosis can help determine the cause of the symptoms and guide appropriate treatment.

There are several ways to determine if you have osteoarthritis of the knee:

1. Physical Examination: A doctor will examine your knee for signs of swelling, tenderness, and limited range of motion. They may also check for any signs of deformity or instability.
2. X-Rays: An X-ray can show the condition of the bones in the knee and can help identify any bone spurs or other signs of osteoarthritis.
3. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): This test uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the knee. It can provide more detailed information about the condition of the bones, cartilage, and other soft tissues in the knee.
4. Blood Tests: There is no specific test to confirm osteoarthritis, but blood tests can rule out other conditions such as Rheumatoid Arthritis or Gout.

Knee pain, swelling, stiffness, and popping are symptoms that can be caused by a variety of conditions, including arthritis, overuse injuries, physical injuries, tendonitis, bursitis, meniscal tears, or a Baker’s cyst. It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions not related to the knee, and it’s important to see a doctor to have a proper diagnosis and guide the appropriate treatment.