What are the symptoms of Arthritis of the Knee?

Pain in the knee and restricted mobility are symptoms that patients with arthritis of the knee bring to us. Initially pain only occurs during prolonged or strenuous exertion: The joint hurts when going on long walks, when climbing stairs or walking on uneven ground in the forests. The more advanced the arthritis is however the more frequently and intensely severe pain is caused by movement.

When sitting watching TV causes problems....

After long periods of sitting people affected must first of all 'warm up' in order to be able to move without pain.

During the course of arthritis what is known as 'start-up pain develops. &bdquo, After long periods of resting for instance a cosy evening watching television, patients with arthritis of the knee cannot easily get out of the armchair“ says Professor Dr. Pavel Dufek, Consultant Orthopaedist at Schön Klinik Neustadt. „You have to first 'warm up', extend and stretch your legs in order to be able to move without pain.“ The joint is often swollen and deformed.

At the advanced stages patients with arthritis of the knee also complain about fatigue pain or pain even when completely resting the joint. Depending on the degree of wear it is possible to hear rubbing noises when walking. In some cases the knee becomes stiff from the arthritis.

Checklist: Do you have arthritis of the knee?

Are you having problems with your knee? Our specialist have compiled a brief overview of the answer to such questions. If you can answer all the points on this checklist with a definite "Yes" you should consult a doctor in the immediate future.

Typical symptoms from patients with arthritis of the knee:

• Pain at the start of a movement (start-up pain)
• Pain with longer weight bearing (weight-bearing pain)
• Pain when climbing the stairs and walking on unsurfaced paths
• Severe pain when carrying heavy objects
• Cracking and snapping noises when walking