Arthritis of the Knee
Knee arthritis is a common condition that occurs when the cartilage within the knee joint begins to wear away, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility. This wear and tear interferes with the knee’s smooth movement and can make everyday activities such as walking, standing, or climbing stairs more difficult. While it most often affects older adults, younger individuals may also develop knee arthritis following joint injuries or repetitive strain. A range of effective treatment options—both non-surgical and surgical—are available to manage symptoms and help improve joint function and quality of life.
What Causes Arthritis of the Knee?
Knee arthritis can develop from a range of factors, including:
- Ageing – natural wear and tear over time
- Obesity – carrying excess weight increases pressure on the knee joints
- Previous injuries – such as fractures or ligament damage
- Repetitive stress – from sports or physically demanding jobs
- Genetics – a family history of arthritis
- Inflammatory conditions – like rheumatoid arthritis
- Bone infection or other joint disorders
What are the signs and symptoms of the Knee Arthritis?
- Persistent knee pain, especially during or after activity
- Joint stiffness, particularly in the morning or after sitting
- Swelling around the knee joint
- A grinding or grating sensation with movement
- Difficulty bending or straightening the knee
- Weakness or a feeling of the knee “giving way”
How is Knee Arthritis Diagnosed?
Mr Soong Chua and his team begin with a thorough discussion of your symptoms and medical history, including any previous injuries or lifestyle factors that may contribute to joint strain. A physical examination is then performed to assess movement, joint alignment, swelling, and areas of tenderness. Imaging such as X-rays are commonly used to show joint space narrowing or bone changes associated with arthritis. In some cases, an MRI may be used for a more detailed view of the cartilage and surrounding tissues to guide treatment planning.
Non-surgical Treatment Options
Many people can manage knee arthritis symptoms with non-surgical treatments, including:
- Activity and lifestyle modification – avoiding high-impact activities, using walking aids, and maintaining a healthy routine
- Physiotherapy – strengthening the muscles around the knee to improve support, mobility, and function
- Medications – such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and reduce inflammation
- Injections – corticosteroid injections to ease inflammation or hyaluronic acid (viscosupplementation) injections to improve joint lubrication and mobility
Surgical Treatments
If non-surgical treatments are no longer effective and symptoms continue to interfere with daily life, surgery may be considered. Mr Chua will recommend the most suitable procedure based on the severity and pattern of arthritis.
- Arthroscopy
A minimally invasive procedure used to clean out loose fragments of cartilage or bone within the knee joint. While not effective for all cases of arthritis, it may offer relief in early stages or when mechanical symptoms are present. - Osteotomy
This procedure involves cutting and realigning the bones of the knee to shift pressure away from the damaged area. It is often recommended for younger, active patients with arthritis limited to one side of the knee and can help delay the need for joint replacement. - Partial Knee Replacement
Suitable for patients with arthritis confined to a single compartment of the knee. This procedure replaces only the damaged section, preserving healthy tissue and ligaments. Recovery is often quicker, and the joint may feel more natural compared to total knee replacement. - Total Knee Replacement
Recommended for advanced arthritis affecting the entire knee joint. The damaged surfaces are replaced with metal and plastic components to restore alignment, movement, and function. Mr Chua offers robotic-assisted total knee replacement for enhanced precision and personalised results.
FAQs
- Can knee arthritis be prevented?
While it can’t always be prevented, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, staying active, and protecting your joints from injury can help reduce your risk. - How do I know if I need surgery for knee arthritis?
If pain, stiffness, or loss of function persist despite non-surgical treatments and start to interfere with your everyday life, surgery may be an option. Mr Chua will assess your condition and guide you through the most suitable treatment path. - What is recovery like after knee replacement surgery?
Most patients begin walking with assistance within a day or two after surgery. Recovery timelines vary, but many people return to light daily activities within 6 to 12 weeks, with ongoing improvement as rehabilitation progresses.
