Knee arthritis is a common concern affecting millions worldwide, especially the aging population. The knee joint is particularly susceptible to arthritis because it bears your body’s weight and how repeatedly you use it throughout the day. Knee arthritis impacts individuals of all ages and could hugely affect their life quality. Although there are numerous forms of canton knee arthritis, osteoarthritis is the most prevalent. If not treated, this condition could result in chronic discomfort, trouble walking, and reduced mobility. Thus, it is vital to identify the warning signs of knee arthritis to seek care and manage the issue effectively.
1. Gradual Increase In Discomfort
Arthritis discomfort generally begins slowly but could develop suddenly in some situations. Initially, you may realize discomfort in the morning or after being inactive for some time. Your knees could also ache whenever you sit for some time, climb stairs, or walk in a flat area.
Knee discomfort that awakens you during the sign could be a sign of osteoarthritis or even rheumatoid arthritis. Factors that could cause worsening symptoms include stress, intense activity, and cold weather.
2. Tenderness or Swelling
Knee arthritis could sometimes cause swelling. With osteoarthritis, this inflammation could be caused by hard swelling from the development of bone spurs or soft swelling, where extra fluid builds up around your knee joint.
Swelling could be more prominent after long periods of inactivity, such as once you wake up. Joint inflammation is prevalent with rheumatoid arthritis because it is an inflammatory condition.
Individuals with rheumatoid arthritis could also suffer symptoms like tiredness, fever, and an overall feeling of being unwell. Other body organs affected by inflammatory changes include the lungs, eyes, and heart. This issue is because rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic illness that impacts the entire body. On the other hand, osteoarthritis has a direct impact on the impacted joint.
3. Locking and Buckling
With time, joint damage may cause the knee structure to become unstable. This concern causes the knee to give away or buckle.
Rheumatoid arthritis causes tendon damage, which also affects the knee’s stability. Bone spurs could also emerge as the cartilage erodes and the bones rub against each other. This condition causes a bumpy surface that may make the joint lock up or stick, making it difficult to straighten or bend.
4. Popping or Clicking Sounds
You might experience a grinding sensation or hear popping or cracking sounds when you straighten or bend the knee. These concerns may develop once you lose part of the cartilage, facilitating mobility.
Both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis may cause cartilage damage. Once cartilage gets damaged, bone spurs and rough surfaces develop.
5. Poor Motion Range
The cartilage and bone changes with knee osteoarthritis or following knee injury could make it difficult for the knee joints to move smoothly. Moving the knee to stand up, walk, or perform other everyday movements may become difficult.
Individuals with rheumatoid arthritis might find it challenging to flex or bend their knees when walking because of swelling and pain. With time, you might require a walker or care to help you remain mobile and balanced.
The symptoms of knee arthritis will vary to some degree on the type of arthritis. Swelling, pain and loss of mobility are typical of various forms of arthritis. While there is no treatment for arthritis, therapy can alleviate symptoms, slow the progression of your illness, and reduce the likelihood of complications. In the case of rheumatoid arthritis, medication can help reduce the severity and frequency of flares. Moreover, strategies like exercise and weight management can help delay or eliminate the need for surgery later on. Your specialist will work with you to develop the best care plan for your specific knee arthritis.
