Arthritis knee pain is one of the most common forms of knee pain. The word arthritis derives from the Greek word arthron which means “joint” and the Latin word itis which means “inflammation”.
In essence, arthritis knee pain is simply painful inflammation of the knee joint. For the most part arthritis knee pain affects older adults over 50. However, it isn’t uncommon to see it in younger people as well.
This article focuses on knee pain from arthritis, but for a full and detailed overview of knee arthritis see our comprehensive guide.
Causes
There are 2 types of arthritis knee pain.
Osteoarthritis – Is a degeneration of joint cartilage and the underlying bone. It is most common in those over 50. Osteoarthritis is caused by age. Over the years, the amount of water in the cartilage increases and the protein of the cartilage breaks down. Constant activity and use of the knee joints causes damage to the cartilage which eventually leads to pain and swelling.
Rheumatoid Arthritis – Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic progressive disease which causes inflammation in the joints. It’s cause isn’t completely understood. However, experts think that Rheumatoid Arthritis occurs when the body’s immune system breaks down and doesn’t work properly. In addition, it is thought that hereditary and environmental factors can contribute to the cause of Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Want to learn a lot more about arthritis knee pain? Check out the arthritis knee guide.
Symptoms
Some of the symptoms related to Rheumatoid Arthritis may include:
- Knee Pain
- Knee Stiffness
- Weak Knee Muscles
- Swelling
- Deformed Joints
- Reduced Range of Knee Motion
- Loss of Knee Motion
- Sounds in the Knee
Some of the symptoms related to Osteoarthritis may include:
- Tender Knees
- Warmness
- Swollen Knee Joints
- Morning Stiffness
- Bumps
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Weight Loss
Diagnosis
An examination, x-rays and blood tests by your doctor are the best ways to determine the cause of arthritic knee pain. Check the knee diagnosis guide to see various forms of knee pain and learn how to diagnose it.
Osteoarthritis is usually visible in x-rays by viewing the loss of cartilage or other knee characteristics. However, Rheumatoid Arthritis can be difficult to diagnose. There are various conditions such as gout which are similar, and its symptoms can develop gradually.
Treatment
To date, there is no cure for arthritis knee pain, however, we have a dozen knee arthritis tips to help you live a normal happy life. Over the counter medication, steroids, physical therapy and surgery can greatly reduce arthritic knee pain. In addition, occasional RICE therapy for knee pain is useful (Rest, Ice, Compress & Elevate).
Prevention
To date, there is no known way to prevent Rheumatoid Arthritis. However, if detected early the disease can be stopped or slowed down. Osteoarthritis can be prevented by taking the necessary steps.
- Exercise (Here are some exercises to help with your arthritis knee pain)
- Maintain Healthy Weight
- Protect Your Joints with a knee brace. Our knee brace guide can help you choose one.
- Reduce Repetitive Knee Stress
- Avoid Injury
- Listen to Your Knee Pain (don’t overwork them!)
Along with arthritis, you may be suffering from any number of knee conditions. To help in figuring out causes and source of knee pain don’t forget to go through our knee pain diagnostics.
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