Dealing with knee pain can significantly impact your daily life, but understanding the underlying cause is crucial for effective management. Osteoarthritis (OA) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) are two common forms of arthritis that can affect the knee joint. In this blog, we will explore the characteristics of OA and RA in the context of knee arthritis to help you identify whether your arthritic knee is due to OA, RA, or a combination of both. I will also point you toward help with your painful knee.
Osteoarthritic (OA) knee
Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent form of arthritis and often affects weight-bearing joints, including the knee.
4 Key features of an Osteoarthritic knee
- Gradual Onset; OA typically develops over time, with symptoms worsening gradually. It is commonly associated with aging, previous joint injuries, or excessive stress on the joint.
- Localised pain: Pain in OA is often localised to the affected knee joint and may worsen with activity or weight-bearing.
- Stiffness: Stiffness in OA knees is generally brief, lasting for a few minutes after periods of inactivity.
- X-ray findings: X-rays may reveal joint space narrowing, the presence of osteophytes (bone spurs), and changes in bone density.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) of the knee
Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that can affect multiple joints, including the knee.
4 Key features of Rheumatoid Arthritis in the knee
- Symmetrical joint involvement: RA typically affects joints symmetrically, meaning if one knee is involved, the other is likely to be as well.
- Systemic symptoms: RA can cause systemic effects such as fatigue, fever, weight loss, and joint stiffness lasting for more than 30 minutes, particularly in the morning.
- Inflammatory signs: RA-related knee arthritis often presents with swelling, warmth, and tenderness around the affected joints.
- Blood test results: Blood tests for RA, including Rheumatoid Factor (RF) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies, can aid in confirming the diagnosis.
What’s the possibility of both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in the knee?
Although OA and RA are different conditions, it is possible to have both simultaneously, especially when multiple joints are affected by RA. If you have RA or any other Inflammatory arthritis but you identify with some of the symptoms associated with OA then it is likely that you have both. My Arthritic Knee Program is suitable for people with OA or a mixture of both OA and RA or indeed any type of inflammatory arthritis. There is an extra section for anyone with RA or any inflammatory arthritis to discuss a few additional considerations that are needed when exercising. (If you go to the course contents you can Preview this section along with others for FREE). Don’t just accept pain, with this carefully designed program you can make significant improvements to both the pain and function of your knee.
Still unsure what’s going on?
If you are unsure whether your arthritic knee is due to OA, RA, or both, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional, preferably a rheumatologist. They will evaluate your medical history, conduct a physical examination, and may order imaging studies and blood tests to determine the underlying cause of your knee arthritis. These steps are essential for an accurate diagnosis and to develop an effective treatment plan. Early diagnosis especially with inflammatory arthritis like RA is essential to limit damage.
Conclusion
Hopefully, you now have a better idea now as to what type of arthritis you have, in your knee which will allow for more effective treatment. I urge you not to put up with your painful and limiting arthritic knee. There is so much you can do to improve your pain and make day-to-day activities like walking and climbing stairs much easier. My specially designed Arthritic Knee Program will help you get the most from your knee. I’ve been using this program in clinic for years with great success, it is now available online have a look and get started straight away. I would love to help you improve your life.
Take care, Helen
Helen Manders BSc (Hons) MCSP HCPC
