Understanding Knee Arthritis: What It Feels Like in Your Knee and How to Manage It

Understanding Knee Arthritis: What It Feels Like in Your Knee and How to Manage It

Written by Georgia Chappell & Reviewed by Paul Holmes.

Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the joints. While it can impact various parts of the body, one of the most common areas affected is the knee.

Understanding what arthritis feels like in your knee, how to manage and prevent it, and exploring treatment options, including the use of Naturecan CBD products, can help individuals lead a more comfortable and active life.

What is the main cause of arthritis?

The main cause of arthritis is the inflammation and degeneration of joints, primarily due to the breakdown of cartilage that cushions the ends of bones. This breakdown can result from several factors, including autoimmune diseases (like rheumatoid arthritis), age-related wear and tear (osteoarthritis), infections, and joint injuries.

Genetic predisposition also plays a crucial role, increasing susceptibility in some individuals. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as poor diet, obesity, lack of physical activity, and repetitive joint stress can exacerbate the condition. These combined elements contribute to the pain, stiffness, and swelling characteristic of arthritis, significantly impacting the quality of life.

What is the main cause of arthritis?

Knee arthritis explained

Knee arthritis, commonly referred to as arthritis of the knee, is a degenerative joint disease that affects the knee joint, causing pain and stiffness. It occurs when the cartilage cushioning the ends of the bones in the knee joint wears down, leading to bone spurs and reduced joint space. This condition results in knee pain, swelling, and decreased mobility.

Treatments include losing weight to reduce stress on the affected joints, physical therapy, and medications. In severe cases, joint replacement surgery may be necessary to restore function and alleviate pain. Managing knee arthritis effectively improves quality of life for those affected.

Types of arthritis in the knee explored

Arthritis in the knee can manifest in several forms, each with its own characteristics and treatment approaches. Common types of knee arthritis include:

  • Osteoarthritis (OA): The most prevalent type, caused by the wear and tear of cartilage over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system attacks the joint lining, causing inflammation, pain, and potential joint deformity.
  • Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Develops after an injury to the knee, such as a fracture or ligament tear, leading to joint damage and subsequent arthritis.
  • Gout: A form of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joint, resulting in sudden, severe pain and swelling.
  • Psoriatic Arthritis: Associated with psoriasis, this type causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, often affecting both the skin and joints.
Types of arthritis in the knee explored

The difference between joint pain and arthritis

Joint pain and arthritis are related but distinct concepts. Joint pain refers to discomfort, aches, or soreness in any of the body's joints, often due to injury or overuse.

Arthritis, specifically osteoarthritis, involves inflammation and joint stiffness due to cartilage damage. When cartilage wears down, it leads to pain and swelling in the affected joint, which can occur in one or both knees.

Diagnosing arthritis often requires magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). To treat pain and manage symptoms, patients may need to lose weight, use medications, and employ physical therapy. Treating osteoarthritis focuses on preserving joint function and relieving pain, especially in knee-treated cases.

Knee arthritis or knee osteoarthritis: What's the difference?

Knee arthritis is a broad term that encompasses various types of joint inflammation, while knee osteoarthritis is a specific condition characterised by the breakdown of joint cartilage. Both conditions can cause a painful joint, but osteoarthritis of the knee is particularly noted for symptoms such as knee pain, stiffness, and swelling.

Risk factors for these conditions include age, obesity, joint injuries, and genetics. Younger patients can also develop knee arthritis due to injuries or genetic predispositions.

  • Osteoarthritis Symptoms: Knee pain, stiffness, and swelling.
  • Risk Factors: Age, obesity, joint injuries, and genetics.
  • Knee Diagnosed: Through physical exams, imaging, and symptom assessment.

In cases of severe osteoarthritis, a partial knee replacement may be considered to alleviate symptoms and improve function.

Managing these conditions often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, such as weight loss, medications, and potentially surgical interventions for those with advanced disease.

6 symptoms of arthritis explored:

What Does Arthritis Feel Like in Your Knee? Arthritis in the knee can present itself in various ways, often starting subtly and progressing over time. Here are some common sensations and symptoms associated with knee arthritis:

  • Pain: The most common symptom is joint pain in the knee, which can range from mild to severe. The pain may worsen after physical activity or at the end of the day. It can also occur during rest or at night.
  • Stiffness: Many individuals experience stiffness in their knees, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity. This stiffness can make it challenging to move the knee and perform daily activities.
  • Swelling: Inflammation in the knee joint can lead to noticeable swelling. This swelling may be accompanied by warmth and redness around the knee.
  • Reduced Range of Motion: Arthritis can limit the range of motion in the knee joint, making it difficult to fully straighten or bend the leg.
  • Grinding Sensation: Some people with knee arthritis experience a grinding or clicking sensation when moving the knee. This is often due to the wearing down of cartilage that cushions the joint.
  • Weakness: Over time, the muscles around the knee may weaken, contributing to a feeling of instability and difficulty in supporting weight.

Preventing Knee Arthritis

While it may not be possible to entirely prevent arthritis, especially if it is hereditary, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk, relieve pain and slow its progression:

  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts additional stress on the knee joints, accelerating the wear and tear of cartilage. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can significantly reduce the risk of knee arthritis.
  • Stay Active: Regular physical activity helps keep the joints flexible and strengthens the muscles around them, providing better support. Low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling, and walking are particularly beneficial for knee health.
  • Protect Your Joints: Avoid activities that put excessive strain on the knees, such as heavy lifting and high-impact sports. Wearing proper footwear and using supportive gear can also help protect your knees.
  • Healthy Diet: Consuming a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids, can help reduce inflammation in the body and support joint health.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain the lubrication of joints and supports overall health.
Preventing knee arthritis?

Which other parts of the body can be affected?

Arthritis can affect various parts of the body, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. Commonly affected areas include the knees, which can result in difficulty walking and standing. Arthritis in the hips can be another major site, often leading to pain radiating to the groyne and thigh. Arthritis in the fingers and hands can impair fine motor skills and grip strength. The shoulders are also frequently impacted, limiting arm movement. The spine, particularly the lower back and neck, can be affected, leading to chronic pain and reduced mobility. Ankles and feet may also suffer, causing discomfort and difficulty in movement and balance.

1.Wrist

While this article primarily focuses on knee arthritis, it is worth noting that arthritis can affect other joints as previously mentioned, including the wrists. Arthritis in the wrist can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty in performing tasks that require hand and wrist movements. Similar to knee arthritis, wrist arthritis can be managed through a combination of lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, and supportive devices.

Which other parts of the body can be affected?

2. Ankles & Feet

Arthritis in the ankles can lead to pain, swelling, stiffness, and challenges with activities that involve foot and ankle movement. Management of ankle arthritis often includes lifestyle adjustments, physical therapy, and the use of supportive devices. Treatment options may involve specialised footwear, low-impact exercises to maintain mobility, and, in more severe cases, surgical interventions to reduce pain and enhance function.

Ankle and feet arthritis

3. Back

Arthritis in the back, often referred to as spinal arthritis, can cause chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced flexibility, impacting daily activities and overall quality of life. Managing back arthritis typically involves a multifaceted approach, including lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, and pain management techniques. Treatments may encompass exercises to strengthen the core and improve posture, medications to reduce inflammation and pain, and in certain situations, surgical procedures to alleviate severe symptoms and enhance spinal function.

Back arthritis explored

Arthritis Flare-Ups

Arthritis flare-ups are periods when symptoms become more intense and debilitating. These flare-ups can be triggered by various factors, including overuse of the joint, stress, changes in weather, and infections. Managing flare-ups involves rest, applying ice or heat to the affected area, and possibly adjusting medications under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Traditional Arthritis Treatments Explored

Traditional arthritis treatments include medications like NSAIDs, corticosteroids, DMARDs, biologics, and analgesics.

TreatmentExamplesProsCons
NSAIDsIbuprofen, NaproxenEffective, accessibleGastrointestinal issues, heart risks
CorticosteroidsPrednisoneFast-actingLong-term side effects
DMARDsMethotrexateTargetedSlow onset, infection risk
BiologicsAdalimumabEffectiveExpensive, infection risk
AnalgesicsAcetaminophenQuick reliefDoesn’t reduce inflammation
Physical Therapy and Lifestyle ChangesExercise, diet modificationsImprove joint function, reduce joint stressRequires ongoing commitment, no immediate pain relief

Knee Joint Support for Arthritis

Supporting the knee joint can alleviate pain and improve function for those with arthritis. Here are some effective methods of knee support:

  • Knee Braces: Wearing a knee brace can provide stability, relieve pain and reduce stress on the joint. There are various types of braces, including those designed for mild support and more rigid ones for severe cases.
  • Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design a personalised exercise program to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.
  • Orthotic Devices: Shoe inserts or custom orthotics can help correct alignment issues and distribute weight more evenly across the knee joint.
  • Assistive Devices: Using a cane or walking stick can help reduce the load on the knee joint, particularly during flare-ups or when walking long distances.

Exploring CBD as an alternative for arthritis relief

CBD (cannabidiol) products have gained popularity for their potential to alleviate pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Here at Naturecan, we offer a range of options that may provide relief for arthritis sufferers.

1. CBD Joint Balm

Naturecan's CBD Joint Balm is designed to provide targeted relief to sore and inflamed joints. The balm combines high-quality CBD with other natural ingredients known for their anti-inflammatory properties. When applied to the knee, it can help reduce pain and improve mobility.

Shop CBD Joint Balm
Naturecan joint balm

2. CBD Oil

Taking CBD oil orally may help reduce systemic inflammation and provide overall pain relief. Naturecan offers CBD oil in various strengths, allowing users to choose a dosage that suits their needs.

Shop CBD Oil
CBD Oil.jpg__PID:55049576-ab5c-4e20-b9a7-62e602226419

3. CBD Capsules

For those who prefer a convenient and consistent dosage, CBD capsules are an excellent option. They are easy to incorporate into a daily routine and can help manage chronic pain and inflammation.

Shop  CBD Capsules
Vegan-CBD-Capsules.webp__PID:f200ccf5-67ce-47c5-aff0-6d5e22f47971

4. CBD Edibles

CBD-infused edibles, such as gummies, offer a tasty and discreet way to consume CBD. They provide a slower release of CBD, making them suitable for long-lasting relief.

Shop CBD Edibles
Double-Chocolate_Cookies.webp__PID:ccf567ce-87c5-4ff0-ad5e-22f47971de06

Comparing Naturecan CBD Products with Traditional Pain Relief

Traditional pain relief options for arthritis, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and topical treatments like Voltarol, are effective for many people. However, some individuals may experience side effects or prefer a more natural approach.

Whereas, our CBD products offer an alternative that may provide similar relief without the associated side effects of traditional medications.

  • Safety Profile: CBD is generally well-tolerated with a low risk of severe side effects. It does not cause gastrointestinal issues or cardiovascular risks associated with long-term NSAID use.
  • Natural Ingredients: Naturecan CBD products are made from natural ingredients, and are also third-party tested, appealing to those who prefer holistic treatments.
  • Customizable Use: CBD products come in various forms and strengths, allowing users to customise their treatment based on their specific needs and preferences.

Final Thoughts

Arthritis in the knee can significantly impact one's quality of life, but with proper management and support, individuals can maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Understanding the symptoms, prevention strategies, and treatment options is crucial in managing knee arthritis effectively.

Naturecan CBD products, including our CBD Joint Balm, offer a promising alternative or complementary option to traditional pain relief methods. As always, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, especially for managing chronic conditions like arthritis.

By combining a healthy lifestyle, supportive therapies, and innovative treatments like CBD, individuals can better manage their arthritis symptoms and improve their overall well-being.

Knee Arthritis FAQs:

Is Arthritis Hereditary?

Arthritis can have a hereditary component, meaning that if your parents or other close relatives have arthritis, you may be at a higher risk of developing it. Genetic factors can influence the likelihood of developing certain types of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. However, genetics is just one piece of the puzzle. Environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and overall health also play significant roles in the development and progression of arthritis.

How do you deal with knee arthritis?

Dealing with knee arthritis involves managing symptoms and improving joint function. Treatments include medications, physical therapy, knee sleeves, weight loss, and alternative therapies like our Joint Balm at Naturecan. Severe cases may require joint replacement surgery to treat osteoarthritis and restore mobility.

What does arthritis in your knee feel like?

Arthritis in your knee feels like persistent pain, stiffness, and swelling. The knee often feels tender and may lock or give way. Symptoms worsen with activity and improve with rest. The joint lining becomes inflamed, leading to discomfort and reduced mobility.

Is knee arthritis curable?

Knee arthritis is not curable, but its symptoms can be managed effectively. Treatments focus on reducing pain and improving joint function through medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes like weight loss. Advanced cases may benefit from joint replacement surgery.

How serious is osteoarthritis of the knee?

Osteoarthritis of the knee can be serious, causing significant pain, joint stiffness, and reduced mobility. As the cartilage wears down, daily activities become challenging. Severe osteoarthritis may lead to disability and necessitate joint replacement surgery to restore function.

What is the treatment for osteoarthritis of the knee?

Treatment for osteoarthritis of the knee includes medications, physical therapy, and weight loss. Alternative therapies like our Joint Balm, knee sleeves, and braces can provide relief. In severe cases, joint replacement surgery may be required to restore mobility and treat osteoarthritis.

Can you live with osteoarthritis in the knee?

Yes, you can live with osteoarthritis in the knee by managing symptoms through lifestyle changes, medications, and physical therapy. Maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can improve joint function and reduce pain. Proper management allows for a relatively normal life.

Is it good to walk with osteoarthritis in the knee?

Walking with osteoarthritis in the knee is generally beneficial, as it helps maintain joint mobility and strength. However, it should be done in moderation to avoid overloading the affected joint. Using supportive aids like knee sleeves can enhance comfort and stability.

Can you live a long life with rheumatoid arthritis?

Yes, you can live a long life with rheumatoid arthritis by managing the condition effectively. Treatments include medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. Early diagnosis and regular medical care are crucial in controlling symptoms and preventing joint damage.

What does rheumatoid arthritis pain feel like?

Rheumatoid arthritis pain feels like persistent, aching pain in the joints, often accompanied by swelling and stiffness. The pain is typically worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity. The joint lining becomes inflamed, causing significant discomfort and reduced mobility.

What are the main causes of rheumatism?

The main causes of rheumatism include genetic factors, autoimmune responses, and environmental triggers. In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks the joint lining, causing inflammation. Other risk factors include age, gender, and lifestyle factors like smoking and obesity, leading to developing osteoarthritis.

Discover our Naturecan Blog

10 healthy ways to reduce cortisol

10 Ways to reduce cortisol levles 

Cortisol  is a crucial hormone in the body, released by the adrenal glands in response to stress.

Read Article
Naturecan's vitamin and mineral guide

Naturecan's Vitamin & Mineral Guide

It’s time to learn what vitamins and minerals are the best for you, and how you can make the most out of them.

Read Article
How to recover from a vitamin B12 Deficiency?

How to recover from vitamin B12 deficiency?

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient your body needs for energy production and many more important functions.

Read Article