What are the treatment options for knee osteoarthritis?

Knee osteoarthritis involves changes in the joint surfaces and surrounding tissues that can cause pain, stiffness and reduced movement. The plan depends on how symptoms affect walking, stairs, sleep and daily tasks, as well as examination findings and imaging when needed. Treatment often begins with approaches that build strength and preserve function.

Physiotherapy and exercise therapy can improve movement, leg strength and confidence with activity. Anti-inflammatory medication may help some people, but suitability depends on other medicines and health conditions. A knee brace can alter load or provide support. Cortisone or hyaluronic acid injections may be discussed when symptoms continue despite other measures.

Arrange an assessment if knee pain or stiffness is limiting your usual activities. Keep gently moving within a tolerable range, use the exercises provided by a clinician, and track which activities trigger symptoms. Do not start, stop or combine pain medicines without checking how they fit your medical history.

If non-surgical care no longer provides enough function, an orthopaedic specialist can discuss procedures such as osteotomy or other knee operations, depending on the location and extent of joint damage.

Seek prompt medical assessment for a hot, markedly swollen or red knee, fever with knee symptoms, sudden inability to bear weight, a major injury, or a knee that becomes locked. Arrange routine review when pain is worsening, movement is shrinking, or night symptoms and walking difficulty persist.

Ask what is driving your symptoms, which exercise plan fits your knee, whether medicines or injections are suitable with your health history, and what findings would make surgery worth considering.