Understanding Knee Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms & Diagnosis

Understanding Knee Arthritis

Knee arthritis is one of the most common causes of knee pain in adults. It occurs when the smooth cartilage that cushions the bones in your knee joint begins to wear away, leading to stiffness, swelling, and discomfort with everyday movement.

At OrthoBethesda, our board-certified orthopedic specialists in Bethesda, MD and Tysons, VA provide advanced, personalized care for patients with knee arthritis — from early-stage joint preservation to total knee replacement when needed.

What Is Knee Arthritis?

The knee joint is lined with a smooth layer of cartilage that allows your bones to glide easily as you move. When this cartilage wears down over time, bone rubs against bone — causing pain, stiffness, and inflammation. This condition is known as osteoarthritis, or “wear-and-tear arthritis.”

Other types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis or post-traumatic arthritis, can also affect the knee, especially after an injury or chronic inflammation.

Common Causes

Knee arthritis can develop from:

• Natural wear and tear with age
• Previous knee injuries or fractures
• Repetitive stress from sports or work
• Obesity or excess body weight
• Inflammatory or autoimmune diseases
• Family history of arthritis

Even small lifestyle factors — like limited activity or poor muscle strength — can accelerate joint wear over time.

Symptoms of Knee Arthritis

You may have knee arthritis if you experience:

• Persistent pain, especially during movement
• Stiffness after sitting or resting
• Swelling or warmth around the joint
• Grinding or popping sensations
• Limited range of motion
• Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or standing

Early evaluation can slow progression and prevent permanent joint damage.

Diagnosing Knee Arthritis

Our orthopedic specialists use:

• Physical examination to assess pain, flexibility, and stability
• X-rays and MRI scans to visualize joint damage
• Lab tests to rule out infection or autoimmune causes
• Gait and function assessments to guide personalized treatment

Treatment Options for Knee Arthritis

At OrthoBethesda, we customize your care plan based on the severity of arthritis and your lifestyle goals.

Nonsurgical Treatments

• Physical therapy to strengthen supporting muscles
• Weight management and low-impact exercise
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Cortisone or viscosupplementation injections
• Bracing or assistive devices

Minimally Invasive & Surgical Options

• Arthroscopic procedures to remove damaged tissue
• Partial or total knee replacement surgery
• Robotic-assisted knee replacement for improved precision and faster recovery

Ready to explore your treatment options? Visit our Knee Arthritis Treatment page to learn about nonsurgical and surgical care.

Why Choose OrthoBethesda for Knee Arthritis Treatment

Choosing OrthoBethesda means getting care from one of the most respected orthopedic teams in the Washington, D.C. metro region. Our knee specialists combine advanced surgical technology, evidence-based medicine, and compassionate care — helping patients move better, recover faster, and live pain-free.

What Sets Us Apart:

• Fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons specializing in knee and sports injuries
• State-of-the-art facilities in Bethesda, MD and Tysons, VA
• On-site imaging, physical therapy, and minimally invasive surgical options
• Collaborative care model connecting physicians and therapists for faster recovery
• Trusted by patients across the D.C. Metro area for more than 50 years

Whether you’re managing early arthritis or exploring knee replacement, our goal is to help you stay active, independent, and pain-free.

Further Reading

Is Walking Good for Arthritis in the Knee?