At Kinesi, we believe that recovery is more than just treating symptoms — it’s about rebuilding confidence, strength, and independence. Our expert Arthritis & Joint Pain: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Arthritis can affect joints and lead to symptoms such as pain, stiffness and reduced mobility. Osteoarthritis is one of the common forms of arthritis affecting weight-bearing joints such as the knee.
Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to significant limitations in everyday activities.
What Is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis involves changes to the tissues within a joint, including deterioration of the cartilage that normally helps the joint move smoothly.
In the knee, progressive cartilage loss can contribute to pain, stiffness and difficulty with movement. OrthoInfo
Common Symptoms of Arthritis
Patients may experience:
- Joint pain
- Stiffness
- Swelling
- Reduced range of motion
- Difficulty walking
- Pain while climbing stairs
- Difficulty with prolonged standing
- Reduced ability to perform daily activities
What Increases the Risk?
Several factors may be associated with osteoarthritis, including:
- Age
- Previous joint injury
- Genetics
- Excess body weight
- Previous surgery
- Repetitive joint stress
Having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean a person will develop arthritis. OrthoInfo
How Is Arthritis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis generally involves understanding the patient’s symptoms and medical history and performing a physical examination.
Imaging may be recommended when appropriate to assess changes within the joint.
Arthritis Treatment Options
Treatment is based on the patient’s symptoms and the severity of the condition.
Depending on the individual, options may include:
- Exercise
- Physiotherapy
- Activity modification
- Weight management where appropriate
- Medication
- Selected injection treatments
- Assistive devices
- Surgical treatment when indicated
Exercise and physical therapy can help improve movement and strengthen muscles that support the affected joint. OrthoInfo
When Is Surgery Considered?
Surgery may be discussed when arthritis becomes advanced, symptoms significantly affect daily life and non-surgical treatments have not provided adequate improvement.
For selected patients with advanced knee arthritis, partial or total knee replacement may be considered. OrthoInfo
Living With Arthritis
Arthritis management is often a long-term process. Staying appropriately active, following a personalized exercise programme and maintaining regular medical follow-up can help patients manage their condition.
Conclusion
Joint pain should not automatically be assumed to be “just age-related.” An appropriate assessment can identify the cause and help determine the most suitable treatment.
If arthritis or joint pain is affecting your mobility, consult Dr. Sai Phani Chandra for an orthopaedic evaluation.