Symptoms of Knee Arthritis: Recognizing Pain, Stiffness, and Reduced Mobility

The knees are hardworking hinges inthe bodies. They bear the brunt of our daily movements and body weight. Unfortunately, our knees experience wear and tear with age. These crucial joints can become susceptible to arthritis, a condition that brings pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Recognizing the early symptoms of knee arthritis is key to seeking an appropriate diagnosis and managing the condition effectively.

The Common Symptoms of Knee Arthritis

The most common symptoms of knee arthritis include the following:

Pain

Typically, the pain associated with knee arthritis is a dull ache, often felt on the inner side of the knee or around the kneecap. The pain may worsen with activity, particularly:

• Climbing stairs
• Squatting
• Walking long distances

It may also flare up after periods of inactivity, like sitting for extended periods.

Stiffness

Knee arthritis can make your knee feel stiff and tight, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.

This stiffness may gradually improve with movement throughout the day, but it can hinder everyday activities like bending down or kneeling.

Reduced Mobility

As arthritis progresses, the range of motion in your knee joint may decrease. You may find it difficult to fully bend or straighten your knee, which can impact activities like:

• Walking
• Running
• Getting up from a chair

Additional Symptoms

In addition to these core symptoms, other signs may point towards knee arthritis:

• Swelling – The affected knee joint may appear swollen due to inflammation or fluid buildup.
• Crepitus – You may hear a grinding or crackling sensation when you move your knee, a sign of damaged cartilage.
• Warmth – The skin around the joint may feel warm to the touch due to inflammation.
• Weakness – The muscles surrounding your knee may weaken due to inactivity and pain, leading to instability and a feeling of “giving way.”

When to Visit a Knee Doctor

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your knee pain is severe and unrelenting, which could indicate advanced arthritis or other complications.
• Your knee joint is significantly swollen and hot to the touch, requiring prompt medical intervention.
• Your knee joint appears visibly deformed or misaligned.
• You experience sudden weakness or instability in your knee, increasing the risk of falls and injuries.
• Your knee pain significantly worsens with specific activities.
• Your knee stiffness persists throughout the day and doesn’t improve significantly with movement.
• The range of motion in your knee decreases noticeably, limiting your ability to perform daily tasks.
• You experience persistent redness or warmth around your knee joint, which could indicate an infection requiring antibiotic treatment.
• You lose sleep due to knee pain or discomfort.

Consulting your doctor regularly, even if your arthritis symptoms are mild, is crucial. Early intervention can slow the progression of the disease and prevent further joint damage.

Open communication with your doctor is key. Discuss your pain levels, limitations, and lifestyle goals to develop a personalized treatment plan that effectively manages your arthritis and improves your quality of life.

By being proactive and attentive to your specific symptoms, you can ensure timely diagnosis and management of your knee arthritis, empowering you to maintain mobility and live well.

Choosing the Best Knee Doctor for Arthritis

Finding the right doctor for your specific arthritis concerns can make a significant difference in your treatment journey. Here are some tips to help you pick the best knee doctor for your needs:

1. Get Recommendations

Ask your primary care physician, friends, or family members who have experience with knee arthritis for recommendations.

You can also check doctor review platforms online for feedback from other patients with similar conditions.

2. Consider Qualifications and Specialization

Look for board-certified orthopedic surgeons, preferably with fellowship training in sports medicine or joint replacement, depending on your needs.

Some doctors specialize in specific types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid or osteoarthritis. So, it is important to choose someone with expertise in your specific diagnosis.

3. Check Accessibility and Insurance Coverage

Ensure the doctor’s office is conveniently located and accessible to you. In addition, verify that your insurance plan covers consultations and potential treatments offered by the doctor.

4. Schedule a Consultation

Meet with your potential doctor and discuss your arthritis concerns, symptoms, and medical history. Ask about their:

• Treatment philosophy
• Experience with similar cases
• Preferred approach for managing your specific type of arthritis

Also, pay attention to their communication style and bedside manner, as these should match your needs and preferences.

5. Trust Your Gut

Choose a doctor you feel comfortable with and who clearly answers your questions and addresses your concerns.

A good doctor-patient relationship is crucial for effective long-term management of your arthritis.

Knee Arthritis Treatment in St. Peters, O’Fallon, & Wentzville, MO

While some occasional knee discomfort is common, persistent pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, especially if they worsen over time, warrant a visit to a doctor. Early diagnosis and management of knee arthritis can help slow the progression of the disease and improve your quality of life. By recognizing the early symptoms of knee arthritis, you can take proactive steps toward managing this condition and maintaining your mobility.

You can trust Advanced Bone & Joint if you need personalized knee arthritis treatment near you. As the best orthopedic clinic in St. Peters, O’Fallon, and Wentzville, you can rest assured you will receive top-quality services from us. Call our helpful staff today at (636) 229-4222, so we can help you closely. You can also schedule a visit with the best orthopedic surgeon near you through our secure online appointment request form.

We look forward to serving you!