Knee Arthritis

Knee arthritis is one of the most common causes of chronic knee pain and stiffness. Arthritis is the inflammation and deterioration of a joint. In the knee, this typically involves the breakdown of articular cartilage, the smooth tissue that covers the ends of the bones in your knee joint. Whether it’s the result of aging, past injuries, or overuse, arthritis can slowly wear down the protective cartilage in your knee making everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, or even standing painful and difficult.

There are several types of arthritis that can affect the knee:

• Osteoarthritis – the most common type, caused by wear and tear over time
• Rheumatoid arthritis – an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of the joint lining
• Post-traumatic arthritis – develops after an injury like a fracture, ligament tear, or meniscus injury

Symptoms of Knee Arthritis
Knee arthritis symptoms often develop gradually but worsen over time. Common signs include:

• Pain during or after activity
• Stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting
• Swelling around the joint
• Grinding, popping, or clicking sounds
• Decreased range of motion
• Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or getting up from a seated position

As the condition progresses, joint deformity and instability may also occur.

Diagnosing Knee Arthritis
If you’re experiencing ongoing knee pain, an evaluation at Iowa Ortho can help determine the cause. Diagnosis typically includes:

• Physical exam to assess range of motion, swelling, and joint stability
• X-rays to visualize joint space narrowing, bone spurs, and alignment
• MRI if soft tissue damage or early-stage arthritis is suspected
• Lab tests if autoimmune arthritis is a concern

Treatment Options
Knee arthritis can often be managed without surgery, especially in its early stages. Our providers work with you to find the most effective combination of treatments for your lifestyle and goals.

Non-Surgical Treatment

• Activity modification to reduce joint stress
• Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve joint mechanics
• Weight management to reduce load on the knee
• Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
• Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections for symptom relief
• Bracing or assistive devices to offload pressure from the joint

Many patients find that a combination of these approaches significantly improves pain and function.

Surgical Treatment
If conservative care no longer provides relief, surgery may be recommended. Options include:

• Arthroscopy to clean out damaged tissue (best for early-stage cases)
• Partial knee replacement to address arthritis in one part of the joint
• Total knee replacement for advanced, multi-compartment arthritis

At Iowa Ortho, we use advanced techniques and technology, including robotic-assisted surgery, to ensure precision, reduce recovery time, and improve long-term outcomes.

Living Well with Knee Arthritis
Arthritis may be a lifelong condition, but it doesn’t have to control your life. With the right care, many people manage their symptoms effectively and continue to enjoy an active lifestyle.

Our team at Iowa Ortho is here to support you through every phase, from diagnosis and treatment to rehabilitation and joint preservation.

If knee arthritis is keeping you from doing what you love, let’s talk. Our orthopedic specialists can help you understand your options and create a plan that fits your life and goals.