Knee arthritis is a common joint disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. This condition occurs when the cartilage, which acts as a cushion between the bones in the knee joint, wears away, leading to pain and inflammation.

The initial symptoms of knee arthritis can be subtle, but if left untreated, they can lead to significant disability and joint damage. Here are some of the early signs and symptoms of knee arthritis:.

Pain and stiffness

One of the most common symptoms of knee arthritis is pain, which can range from a dull ache to severe pain that interferes with daily activities. The pain is often worse after periods of inactivity, such as sitting or sleeping.

Stiffness is another common symptom, especially in the morning or after prolonged sitting. The stiffness usually improves after moving around or after exercise.

Swelling and warmth

Knee arthritis can cause swelling and warmth in the affected joint. This inflammation can lead to a feeling of tightness or fullness in the knee. The swelling can also be accompanied by redness or a feeling of warmth in the knee joint.

Crepitus

An early sign of knee arthritis can be a crunching or grating sound or sensation when moving the joint. This sound, known as crepitus, is caused by the roughening and wearing away of the cartilage in the knee joint.

Crepitus can also be accompanied by a feeling of grinding or clicking when bending or straightening the knee.

Decreased range of motion

Knee arthritis can also restrict the movement of the joint, leading to a decreased range of motion. This stiffness can make it challenging to perform daily activities such as climbing stairs, walking, or bending down.

The range of motion can gradually decrease as the condition progresses over time.

Tenderness when touched

The knee joint may feel tender to the touch, particularly in the area around the joint. This tenderness can be accompanied by pain when pressure is applied to the affected area.

The tenderness is usually caused by inflammation and can be a sign that the condition is progressing.

Muscle weakness

Knee arthritis can also cause muscle weakness in the affected leg. The muscles around the knee joint may become weak due to disuse or damage to the joint structure.

Weakness can make it challenging to perform daily activities such as standing up from a chair or walking.

Bone spurs

Bone spurs or small outgrowths can develop on the bones around the affected joint. These can be detected on an X-ray and are a sign that the condition is progressing. Bone spurs can cause pain and can make it challenging to move the joint.

Pain after exercise

People with knee arthritis may experience more pain after exercise or prolonged activity. This pain can be a sign that the joint is wearing out, and the cartilage is breaking down.

Pain after exercise should be addressed by a doctor to prevent further damage to the knee joint.

Numbness or tingling

In advanced cases of knee arthritis, numbness or tingling may be present in the leg or foot. This is usually a sign that the joint is severely damaged, and nerves surrounding the joint are being compressed.

This can cause pain and discomfort and should be addressed by a medical professional as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Knee arthritis can be a debilitating condition, especially if left untreated. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it is essential to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

With proper management, people with knee arthritis can improve their function and quality of life.