What Does Knee Arthritis Feel Like? When To Contact A Knee Pain Doctor?
Knee arthritis is a common form of arthritis that affects the knee joint. It is a condition that occurs when the cartilage in the knee joint wears down, leading to pain and stiffness. If you’re experiencing knee pain, it’s important to understand what knee arthritis feels like and when to contact a knee pain doctor.
New York Knee Pain Doctor is a group of board-certified interventional pain specialists with advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the knees, such as osteoarthritis, knee arthritis, and runner’s knee. Our doctors take a dynamic approach to address the root cause of your knee pain and alleviate symptoms without surgery or opioids — only minimally invasive knee pain treatments.
You can find our knee pain doctors in Midtown Manhattan, a short walk from Bryant Park, or a short walk from the 9/11 Tribute Museum in the Financial District. Please schedule an appointment at your nearest medical center to meet our knee pain doctors in New York.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a general term used to describe inflammation in the joints. It is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide and can cause severe pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. There are many types of arthritis, each with its own causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis (OA), also known as “wear and tear” arthritis. OA is a degenerative condition that affects the cartilage, the soft tissue that cushions the joints and allows for smooth movement. As we age, the cartilage in our joints can begin to break down, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Additionally, certain factors such as obesity, genetics, and previous joint injuries can increase the risk of developing OA at a young age.
OA typically affects the weight-bearing joints of the body, such as the hips, knees, and spine, but it can also affect the fingers, toes, and other joints. The symptoms of OA can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but they may include joint pain, stiffness, and a grating or crunching sensation in the affected joint. OA can also cause a loss of range of motion, weakness, and joint deformities.
Types of Knee Arthritis
There are several types of knee arthritis, each with its own causes, symptoms, and treatment options. The most common forms of knee arthritis include:
- Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of knee arthritis and is caused by the natural wear and tear of the knee joint. It is a degenerative condition that affects the cartilage, the soft tissue that cushions the joints and allows for smooth movement.
- Post-traumatic arthritis: Post-traumatic arthritis is caused by an injury to the knee, such as a fracture or ligament tear. An injury to the knee can damage the cartilage and other structures within the joint, leading to arthritis symptoms. This type of arthritis is more likely to occur in people who have had a significant knee injury, such as a fracture or ligament tear.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in the joints. The body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness. RA can affect any joint in the body, including the knee. It typically affects both knees and can cause symmetrical joint damage.
Each type of knee arthritis has its own specific characteristics, diagnosis and treatment method. It is important to seek medical advice if you experience knee pain, stiffness or limited mobility. A knee pain doctor can perform a physical examination, take a medical history, and order imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI to determine the type of knee arthritis and the best course of treatment. With the right diagnosis and treatment plan, it is possible to manage the symptoms of knee arthritis and improve the quality of life.
Symptoms of Knee Arthritis
The symptoms of knee arthritis vary depending on the type of arthritis and the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:
- Joint pain: The affected joint may feel sore and tender to the touch.
- Stiffness: The joint may be stiff and difficult to move, particularly in the morning or after sitting for a long period of time.
- Swelling: The joint may be swollen and red.
- Creaking or popping: The joint may make creaking or popping noises when moved.
- Weakness: The joint may feel weak and unstable.

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How to Find Out if You Have Osteoarthritis
If you’re experiencing knee pain, it’s important to consult with a knee pain doctor to determine the cause of your symptoms. Your doctor will likely perform a physical examination and may order X-rays or other imaging tests to check for signs of osteoarthritis. In some cases, a doctor may also recommend a joint fluid test to check for other forms of arthritis.
Onset of Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that typically develops over time as the cartilage in the joints wears down. The risk of developing osteoarthritis increases with age, as the cartilage in the joints becomes more susceptible to wear and tear as we age. However, it is also possible for people to develop osteoarthritis at a young age, especially if they have certain risk factors.
Risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing osteoarthritis at a young age include:
- Knee injuries: Previous knee injuries, such as fractures, ligament tears, or meniscus tears, can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis. These injuries can damage the cartilage and other structures within the joint, making it more susceptible to wear and tear.
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese can put extra stress on the knee joints, leading to an increased risk of developing osteoarthritis.
- Genetics: Some people may be more susceptible to developing osteoarthritis due to their genetics. A family history of the condition can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis at a young age.
- Occupation: Certain jobs or activities that put repetitive stress on the knee joint, such as heavy manual labor or sports, can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.

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Our Manhattan NY knee pain clinic is conveniently located on 290 Madison Avenue Suite 203
When to Contact a Knee Pain Doctor
If you’re experiencing knee pain, it’s important to contact a knee pain doctor to determine the cause of your symptoms. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of knee arthritis, such as joint pain, stiffness, or swelling, it’s important to see a knee pain doctor in New York for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
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Meet Our Team of Knee Pain Specialists
KNOW OUR TEAM OF HARVARD TRAINED KNEE SPECIALISTS

Knee Pain Doctor in New York
Dr. Michael Nguyen
Dr. Michael is available for Knee Pain treatment consultations in Manhattan, New York.

Knee Pain Doctor in New Jersey
Dr. George Hanna
Dr. Hanna is available for Knee Pain treatment consultations in Manhattan, New York.

Knee Pain Doctor in New York
Dr. Shane Volney
Dr. Volney is available for Knee Pain treatment consultations in Manhattan, New York.
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