Knee pain is a common complaint, especially as we age. Arthritis is one of the leading causes of knee discomfort, stiffness, and swelling. But did you know that not all arthritis is the same? There are several types of arthritis that can affect your knees, each with different causes, symptoms, and treatment options. In this guide, we'll explore the most common forms of knee arthritis and provide insights into how to manage them effectively.

1. Osteoarthritis (OA) What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of knee arthritis, often referred to as "wear and tear" arthritis. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones gradually deteriorates, leading to bone-on-bone friction. This can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee joint.

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis:

• Knee pain that worsens with activity
• Stiffness, especially after resting or in the morning
• Swelling around the knee joint
• Loss of flexibility and difficulty bending the knee

Treatment Options:

• Exercise and physiotherapy: Strengthening the muscles around the knee can help reduce the load on the joint.
• Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on the knees.
• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage symptoms.
• Joint injections: Corticosteroid injections may offer temporary relief from severe pain.
• Surgery: In advanced cases, knee replacement surgery may be necessary.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that can affect the knees. Unlike osteoarthritis, which results from wear and tear, RA occurs when the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation. This can damage cartilage and bone, leading to significant joint pain and swelling.

Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis:

• Warmth, tenderness, and swelling around the knee
• Stiffness in the knee, especially in the morning or after long periods of inactivity
• Fatigue and general feelings of malaise
• Symmetrical joint pain (both knees may be affected)

Treatment Options:

• Medications: Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologics can help slow the progression of RA.
• Physiotherapy: Regular movement and targeted exercises can help maintain flexibility and strength in the knees.
• Lifestyle modifications: Low-impact activities, such as swimming or cycling, can help keep the knees flexible without putting too much stress on the joints.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgical options such as synovectomy or joint replacement may be considered.

3. Post-Traumatic Arthritis What is Post-Traumatic Arthritis?

Post-traumatic arthritis develops after an injury to the knee, such as a fracture, ligament tear, or meniscus injury. Over time, the damage from the injury can lead to the breakdown of cartilage, resulting in arthritis. This type of arthritis can appear years after the initial injury.

Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Arthritis:

• Persistent knee pain and swelling, often after activity
• Joint instability or weakness
• Difficulty moving the knee or performing weight-bearing activities

Treatment Options:

• Physical therapy: Rebuilding strength and stability around the knee joint through exercise is key to managing symptoms.
• Pain management: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroid injections can help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Surgery: Arthroscopic surgery to repair damaged cartilage or ligaments may help reduce the progression of arthritis in some cases.

How to Manage Knee Arthritis

No matter which type of knee arthritis you have, proper management is essential to maintaining joint health and quality of life. Here are some general tips for managing arthritis in the knee:

• Stay Active: Engage in low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling to keep your knees moving and strong.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reducing excess weight can help take pressure off your knees, relieving pain and preventing further damage.
• Follow a Physiotherapy Plan: A personalized plan from a physiotherapist can help you improve knee mobility, reduce pain, and prevent further damage.
• Use Assistive Devices: Braces, canes, or shoe inserts can help stabilize the knee and reduce strain.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your knee pain is interfering with daily activities or not responding to home treatments, it's time to seek professional help. Our experienced physiotherapists can assess your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you manage your arthritis and regain mobility.