Knee Arthritis
Knee arthritis can affect walking, stairs, sleep, work and recreation. Dr Fraser assesses the pattern and severity of the condition before discussing treatment options that reflect your symptoms, health and goals.
Assessment first
Understand the knee before choosing the pathway.
Understanding knee arthritis
Arthritis affects the smooth surfaces that allow the knee to move. Osteoarthritis is the most common form and may involve the inner, outer or kneecap compartment of the joint. Previous injury, inflammatory disease, alignment, genetics and other factors may also contribute.
The degree of change on an X-ray does not always match the level of pain. Treatment planning therefore considers the person and the knee, not imaging alone.
Symptoms, examination findings and imaging are considered together when discussing non-operative and surgical options.
On this page
02 / What to know
Symptoms you may notice
Symptoms may develop gradually or fluctuate with activity.
- Pain during walking, stairs, bending or standing from a chair
- Stiffness after sitting or first thing in the morning
- Swelling or a feeling of fullness around the knee
- Grinding, clicking, catching or reduced movement
- A sense that the knee may give way
- Reduced walking distance, night pain or difficulty with daily activities
Seek medical assessment when symptoms persist, worsen or begin to limit your independence and quality of life.
03 / What to know
Assessment and imaging
Dr Fraser will ask about your pain, function, previous injuries, medical history and treatment already attempted. Examination may include walking, alignment, range of motion, stability, strength and areas of tenderness.
Weight-bearing X-rays commonly help define the pattern and severity of arthritis. Other imaging or tests may be considered when the diagnosis is uncertain or another condition is suspected.
04 / Treatment options
Non-surgical management
Many patients begin with a personalised non-operative plan. Depending on your circumstances, this may include education, activity modification, an individualised exercise or physiotherapy program, weight management where relevant, a brace or walking aid, and discussion of suitable medicines with your GP.
Selected injections or other pain-management options may sometimes be discussed. Their likely duration of benefit, limitations and risks should be considered before proceeding.
05 / Treatment options
When surgery may be considered
A surgical opinion may be appropriate when advanced arthritis causes substantial pain and functional difficulty despite a reasonable trial of high-quality non-operative care.
The pattern of disease may influence the options considered. These can include osteotomy, partial knee replacement or total knee replacement. Dr Fraser will explain whether an operation is suitable, the alternatives, realistic goals and the important risks and recovery requirements.
Preparing for consultation
Bring your referral, relevant X-rays or scans, a current medication list and records of previous knee treatment or surgery. It can also help to note which activities are most limited and what improvement would be meaningful to you.
Seek urgent medical care for a severely swollen or deformed knee after injury, inability to bear weight, or a hot red knee with fever. Call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.
You are welcome to bring a family member or support person. Writing down your questions beforehand can also help you make the most of the appointment.
Discuss your symptoms and treatment options.
Symptoms, examination findings and imaging are considered together when discussing non-operative and surgical options.
Knee Arthritis FAQs
Helpful starting points before your consultation. Advice and recovery plans are always tailored to the individual.
Does knee arthritis always lead to knee replacement?
No. Treatment is based on your symptoms and function, not simply the presence of arthritis on an X-ray. Exercise, physiotherapy, weight management where relevant, medicines or selected injections may be considered before surgery.
When should I seek a specialist assessment?
A specialist assessment may be useful when pain, stiffness or reduced walking ability is significantly affecting daily life and appropriate non-operative care is no longer providing enough relief.
What determines the most suitable treatment?
The pattern and severity of arthritis, symptoms, examination, imaging, general health, previous treatment and your personal goals are considered together when forming a plan.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Please bring your referral, Medicare details, relevant X-rays or scans, a current medication list and any useful reports from previous treatment or surgery. Contact the practice before your visit if you are unsure what is required.
Explore hip care