Knee pain

Knee arthritis usually refers to knee osteoarthritis, a condition where the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones in the knee gradually wears down.

Cartilage normally allows the joint to move smoothly and absorb load during walking and activity. As this cartilage becomes thinner, the joint can become stiff, irritated and painful.

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of knee pain in adults and often develops slowly over time.

Early symptoms of knee osteoarthritis can develop gradually and may vary between people.

Common early signs include:

– stiffness in the knee, especially in the morning or after sitting

– discomfort when walking longer distances

– pain when climbing stairs or squatting

– mild swelling around the joint

– a feeling of grinding or reduced smooth movement in the knee

Symptoms often fluctuate, with periods where the knee feels relatively comfortable followed by flare-ups.

Pain from knee arthritis is often felt around the front or inside of the knee joint, although it can vary.

Some people experience:

– pain behind the kneecap

– discomfort along the inner side of the knee

– aching around the whole joint after activity

Because the knee carries body weight during walking and movement, pain may worsen after standing, walking longer distances or using stairs.

Yes. Exercise and strengthening are among the most important parts of managing knee osteoarthritis.

Strengthening the muscles around the knee can help:

– support the joint

– reduce pressure on damaged cartilage

– improve stability and walking ability

– reduce pain during daily activity

Many people benefit from guidance from a physiotherapist or musculoskeletal specialist when starting an exercise programme.

Treatment usually follows a step-by-step approach.

This may include:

– physiotherapy and strengthening exercises

– weight management and activity modification

– short-term pain relief medications when needed

– supportive treatments such as bracing or cold therapy

– injection therapies for joint pain

– surgical assessment in more advanced cases

The goal of treatment is usually to reduce pain and help people remain active for as long as possible.

Injection therapies may be considered when knee pain continues despite physiotherapy and conservative treatments.

They are often used when:

– pain is limiting walking or activity

– symptoms flare due to inflammation inside the joint

– patients want to delay or avoid surgery

Injections are normally delivered directly into the joint by clinicians experienced in musculoskeletal care.

Several types of injections may be used depending on the symptoms and stage of osteoarthritis.

Common options include:

– corticosteroid injections to reduce joint inflammation

– hyaluronic acid injections to support joint lubrication

– other regenerative or biologic treatments in specialist clinics

– newer gel-type or polymer injections, although these are still relatively new

A clinician can help determine whether injection therapy is appropriate and which option may be most suitable.

Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally within healthy joint fluid and helps the joint move smoothly.

In osteoarthritis the quality of this fluid can change. Hyaluronic acid injections aim to improve lubrication and cushioning within the joint.

Some patients experience improvements in pain and mobility following treatment, particularly when injections are combined with strengthening and rehabilitation.

There is currently no cure for osteoarthritis, but many treatments can help manage symptoms effectively.

Most treatment plans aim to:

– maintain joint movement

– strengthen the muscles around the knee

– reduce inflammation and pain

– support activity and mobility

Many people live active lives with knee osteoarthritis when symptoms are managed appropriately.

Every patient is different. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, and the most suitable option will depend on your symptoms and the stage of arthritis.

However, Cingal represents the highest chance of success across all options (92%).

A clinician can explain the likely benefits, limitations and alternatives of each option for your knee.