Early Signs of Knee Arthritis You Shouldn’t Ignore

Knee arthritis can be easy to overlook in its earliest stages. What seems minor at first may gradually begin to affect how comfortably you move through your day. Knowing the early signs of knee arthritis can help you recognize when it’s worth paying closer attention to your knee health.

At Specialty Orthopaedics in Harrison, NY, board-certified orthopaedic surgeon and joint replacement and arthritis specialist Dr. Steven Zelicof has extensive experience treating hip and knee arthritis. He provides conservative and surgical care and has advanced expertise in joint reconstruction, minimally invasive techniques, computer navigation, and Mako robotic-assisted surgery.

What Are the Early Signs of Knee Arthritis?

Knee arthritis symptoms can develop gradually and may come and go at first. Some changes worth paying attention to include:

• Morning stiffness: Your knee may feel stiff when you first get up or after resting for a while.
• Pain with activity: Walking, climbing stairs, squatting, or standing for longer periods may become uncomfortable.
• Recurring swelling: You may notice occasional swelling around the knee joint, especially after activity.
• Reduced range of motion: Fully bending or straightening your knee may become more difficult.
• Grinding or clicking: Your knee may make noticeable grinding, creaking, or clicking sensations as you move.
• Stiffness after sitting: Getting up after a meal, car ride, or time at your desk may leave your knee feeling stiff or sore.
• Changes in your routine: You may find yourself skipping walks, avoiding stairs, or cutting back on activities because of knee discomfort.

When Should You See an Orthopaedic Specialist?

Consider an evaluation when knee pain, stiffness, swelling, or limited movement keeps returning or starts interfering with everyday activities. An orthopaedic evaluation can identify the source of your symptoms and assess changes within the joint.

Treatment does not automatically mean surgery. Depending on your condition, conservative options may be considered before surgical treatment.

Get Your Knee Checked at Specialty Orthopaedics

Recurring knee problems do not have to become something you simply work around. Specialty Orthopaedics helps people in Harrison and throughout Westchester County, NY, identify the cause of their knee discomfort and explore appropriate treatment options.

Call 914-686-0111 to schedule a consultation with Specialty Orthopaedics.