Knee Osteoarthritis Symptoms
Learn more about living with knee osteoarthritis.
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint condition that affects millions of people worldwide. As the protective cartilage in the knee wears down, patients experience a range of symptoms that can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. Recognizing symptoms early may help you find relief from knee osteoarthritis before it gets worse. The specialists at ProVascularMD outline the key symptoms of knee osteoarthritis. Read on for a detailed review!
Painful Knee Osteoarthritis Specialist
Dr. Michael Lalezarian
Are you living with painful knee osteoarthritis? We can help you find relief.
Dr. Michael Lalezarian is a double-board certified Vascular Interventional Radiologist specializing in minimally invasive therapy, including genicular artery embolization for knee osteoarthritis.
“I want to start by thanking Dr Lalezarian for everything. He has changed my life and my legs are no longer in pain. I have no words to thank you and thank you to the girls for being so kind and helpful.”
Juan O, December 2023
Pain & Discomfort
Pain is the most common symptom of knee osteoarthritis and often the first sign that something is wrong. Initially, the pain may occur only after physical activity, such as walking or climbing stairs. As the condition progresses, pain may become more persistent, even occurring during rest. The pain is typically described as a dull, aching sensation that worsens over time, particularly with prolonged activity or weight-bearing movements. Some individuals also experience sharp or stabbing pain during movement.
Stiffness
Stiffness in the knee joint is another hallmark symptom of osteoarthritis. Many patients notice that their knee feels particularly stiff after periods of inactivity, such as upon waking in the morning or after sitting for an extended time. This stiffness usually improves with gentle movement but may return after strenuous activity. As osteoarthritis advances, stiffness can become more persistent, making it difficult to fully extend or bend the knee.
Swelling & Inflammation
Swelling around the knee joint is a common symptom caused by inflammation and excess fluid accumulation. This occurs when the joint tissues become irritated due to cartilage breakdown. Swelling may vary in severity, sometimes presenting as mild puffiness and at other times as significant joint enlargement. The skin around the knee may also appear red and feel warm to the touch, particularly during flare-ups of inflammation.
Cracking or Popping Sounds (Crepitus)
Many individuals with knee osteoarthritis report hearing or feeling grinding, popping, or cracking sounds when moving the knee. This phenomenon, known as crepitus, results from roughened cartilage surfaces rubbing against each other. While occasional popping sounds can be normal, frequent or painful crepitus may indicate worsening joint damage. In some cases, loose fragments of cartilage or bone can contribute to these noises and sensations.
Reduced Range of Motion
As knee osteoarthritis progresses, individuals may experience a gradual decline in their ability to move the joint freely. Bending and straightening the knee can become more difficult, affecting daily activities such as walking, sitting, or getting in and out of a car. In severe cases, the knee may feel “locked” or resistant to movement, further limiting function and mobility.
Knee Osteoarthritis Pain Relief in Los Angeles
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Weakness & Instability
Muscle weakness and joint instability often develop as osteoarthritis advances. The weakening of surrounding muscles, particularly the quadriceps, can make it harder to support the knee properly. Patients may feel as if their knee is “giving out,” leading to an increased risk of falls. This instability can make standing for long periods or engaging in weight-bearing activities more challenging.
Bone Spurs (Osteophytes)
In response to cartilage loss, the body may develop small bony growths called osteophytes or bone spurs. These can form around the knee joint, leading to increased stiffness and discomfort. In some cases, bone spurs can press on surrounding tissues or nerves, contributing to additional pain and mobility issues.
Changes in Gait & Posture
Due to pain, stiffness, and instability, many individuals with knee osteoarthritis unconsciously alter the way they walk. Affected individuals may shift their weight to the opposite leg or develop a limp to reduce discomfort. Over time, these changes in gait and posture can lead to secondary problems, including hip, lower back, or ankle pain due to altered biomechanics.
Increased Sensitivity to Weather Changes
Many people with knee osteoarthritis report that their symptoms worsen with changes in weather, particularly in cold or damp conditions. Although the exact reason for this phenomenon is not fully understood, it may be related to changes in barometric pressure affecting joint tissues. Some individuals notice increased stiffness, swelling, or pain during seasonal shifts or rainy days.
Fatigue & Emotional Impact
Living with chronic knee osteoarthritis can be physically and emotionally draining. Persistent pain and mobility challenges can contribute to fatigue, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks. Additionally, the limitations imposed by knee osteoarthritis may lead to frustration, anxiety, or depression, especially if the condition significantly impacts independence and lifestyle.
Genicular Artery Embolization in Los Angeles
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Symptom Relief
Are you living with osteoarthritis symptoms? Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis, there are treatments that can help alleviate your symptoms and improve your mobility, including:
- Physical therapy and low-impact exercises
- Pain management with medications or injections
- Weight management to reduce stress on the joints
- Supportive devices like braces or orthotics
- Genicular artery embolization to relieve knee pain
- Surgical options such as knee replacement
More Resources
Genicular Artery Embolization
Learn more about the new, minimally invasive treatment option for painful knee osteoarthritis offered at ProVascularMD.
Knee Osteoarthritis Symptoms
Recognizing symptoms early may help you find relief from knee osteoarthritis before it gets worse.
Knee Osteoarthritis Treatments
Learn about the many treatment options that can reduce discomfort and help you regain an active lifestyle.
Knee Osteoarthritis Specialist in Los Angeles
Learn more about Los Angeles Knee Osteoarthritis Specialist Dr. Michael Lalezarian.
References
[1] McAlindon TE, Bannuru RR, Sullivan MC, et al. Diagnosis and treatment of hip and knee osteoarthritis. JAMA. 2021;325(6):568-578. doi:10.1001/jama.2021.0121
[2] Zhang W, Nuki G, Moskowitz RW, et al. Management of osteoarthritis of the knee: Part I: symptomatology, risk factors, and clinical management. BMJ. 2012;345:e4934. doi:10.1136/bmj.e4934
[3] Menz HB, Dufour AB, Katz P, et al. Expanding and explaining symptoms in knee osteoarthritis trajectories. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2023;31(9):1203-1212. doi:10.1016/j.joca.2023.07.036
[4] Hawker GA, Stewart L, French MR, et al. Flare-ups of osteoarthritis: what do they mean in the short-term and long-term? Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2020;28(7):859-867. doi:10.1016/j.joca.2020.03.030
[5] Rutherford DJ, Hubley-Kozey CL, Stanish WD, et al. Factors, characteristics, and influences of the changes of muscle activation patterns in patients with knee osteoarthritis. J Orthop Surg Res. 2025;20(1):84. doi:10.1186/s13018-025-05484-x
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