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General health information

Knee osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis can cause pain, stiffness, swelling and difficulty walking, standing up or using stairs. Adapted activity is a central part of treatment.

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  • Knee osteoarthritis involves changes throughout the knee joint and often causes pain with use, brief stiffness on starting to move, and difficulty using stairs, walking or standing up.
  • Severity on an X-ray does not precisely predict how much pain someone has.
  • Targeted leg strengthening and fitness training are the foundation and are usually safe, even if the knee is a little sore while building up.
  • If you are overweight, losing weight can reduce knee loading and pain.
  • A walking stick, suitable shoes or a knee brace may help selected people.
  • Topical NSAID gel is often a first medication option; tablets require assessment of stomach, kidney and heart risks.
  • A corticosteroid injection may help briefly; routine keyhole surgery for ordinary osteoarthritis usually does not.
  • A knee replacement is considered for severe, persistent symptoms and limitations despite good non-surgical treatment.

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Further reading

Browse A–Z
O
OsteoarthritisOsteoarthritis is a long-term joint condition that can cause pain, stiffness and reduced movement. Knees, hips and fingers are often affected.
K
Kneecap pain with movementPain around or behind the kneecap when using stairs, squatting, running or sitting for a long time is often called patellofemoral pain. The knee is usually not damaged; targeted exercise therapy and a gradual increase in activity often help.
B
Bacterial joint infection (septic arthritis)A bacterial joint infection, also called septic arthritis, is a serious infection that can quickly damage a joint. Sudden severe pain and swelling in a joint need urgent assessment.