خشونة الركبة

Pain — that worsens with activity and eases with rest — though advanced cases ache at rest too. Stiffness — especially in the morning or after sitting, easing as you move. Swelling — and a feeling of warmth in the joint. Grinding or clicking — (crepitus) as the roughened surfaces move. Reduced range of motion — and difficulty with stairs, kneeling or long walks.

Age — cartilage naturally becomes less resilient over time. Previous injury, such as an old ACL or meniscus tear. Excess body weight, which multiplies the load through the knee. Genetics and family history. Repetitive high-impact loading over many years.

Diagnosis combines your history, an examination of movement and alignment, and standing (weight-bearing) X-rays that show joint-space narrowing. MRI is occasionally used to assess cartilage and rule out other causes of pain.

Treatment follows a ladder — always starting with the least invasive measures, which control symptoms effectively for many years in most patients. Activity & weight: Targeted exercise, muscle strengthening and weight management are the most powerful, best-evidenced treatments. Medication: Anti-inflammatory medication and, in selected cases, injections to control flare-ups. Physiotherapy & aids: Bracing, footwear and physiotherapy to offload the joint and improve mechanics. Joint replacement: When conservative care no longer controls pain, partial or total knee replacement reliably restores comfort and mobility.

Knee arthritis is managed rather than cured, and a clear plan makes a real difference. Staying active — within comfortable limits — keeps the surrounding muscles strong and the joint mobile. When the time for surgery does come, modern joint replacement offers excellent, durable results.