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Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis develops as the cartilage cushioning the knee joint gradually wears down, most commonly affecting the inner side of the joint, though it can affect the kneecap or outer side as well.
It's one of the most common causes of knee pain in adults, and it develops at a different pace for everyone — which is why an individual assessment matters more than a generic timeline.
Stages of Knee Osteoarthritis
Normal knee
Healthy cartilage to the femur (thigh; above) and tibia (shin; below)
Mild osteoarthritis
Early cartilage thinning
Moderate osteoarthritis
Progressive cartilage loss
Severe osteoarthritis
Near-complete cartilage loss
Pain, particularly with walking, stairs, or standing for long periods
Stiffness, especially after rest or first thing in the morning
Swelling around the joint
A grinding or catching sensation during movement
Gradual reduction in how far you can comfortably walk or how long you can stand
Symptoms
Many patients see real, lasting improvement from non-surgical management, particularly when started early:
Physiotherapy - strengthening the quadriceps and surrounding muscles to reduce load on the joint
Activity and weight management - modifying high-impact activity and managing weight where relevant to reduce mechanical stress on the knee
Medication — anti-inflammatory medication to help manage flare-ups
Injections — including steroid injections or newer options such as Arthrosamid, considered when other measures haven't given enough relief
Non-Surgical Treatment
If symptoms progress despite consistent non-surgical management, surgical options range from minimally invasive, cartilage-preserving procedures through to partial or total knee replacement, including robotic-assisted techniques for greater precision.
The right option depends on how much of the joint is affected, your activity levels, and your personal goals.