Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, is an age-related condition that affects millions of people. Over time, the protective layer of cartilage that cushions our joints begins to wear out, leading to inflammation as a result of the increased bone-on-bone contact. Since we use our knees for nearly any everyday activity and they absorb so much stress from movement, they can be a frequent location for arthritis to develop. 

While arthritis in the knees is not a curable condition, it is possible to successfully manage it, and in some cases, slow down its progress. One of the best ways to do this is catch the condition as early as possible and take a consistent and active approach to treatment. If you’re a patient in Franklin, Wisconsin, and are wondering if you are experiencing any of the early signs of arthritis in the knees, the team at Franklin Rehabilitation is here to help. By having an understanding of what to watch for, you can take the appropriate treatment measures, including physical therapy. 

Here are the common indicators of arthritis in the knees

The natural changes that lead to arthritis happen to all of us to some degree or another, so it can be easy to mistake early signs of the condition with just “growing older.” However, letting arthritis develop undetected and untreated has the potential to develop into crippling and debilitating pain. This is why it’s so important to seek treatment if you experience any of the following on a consistent basis: 

1. Stiffness — As protective cartilage and lubricating joint fluid begins to thin and dry out, it slowly becomes more difficult to move your joints, including your knees. 
2. Decreased stability — With decreased joint mobility comes a lessened ability to keep yourself balanced while standing, walking or doing other activities. Some patients also experience buckling and locking in the knee.
3. Grinding and popping sensations — Also known as crepitus, the feeling of bone grinding against bone isn’t always painful, but it is a common indicator of joint degeneration. 

If you are diagnosed with arthritis in the knees, there are a number of treatment options you can explore. Along with healthy lifestyle choices like an anti-inflammatory diet and regular exercise, working with a physical therapist can be an extremely effective way to manage this condition. 

Arthritis treatment right in Franklin

At Franklin Rehabilitation, our knowledgeable therapists have extensive experience in helping patients with arthritis manage their condition. People with arthritis in the knees can benefit from manual therapies and therapeutic exercises designed to improve range of motion and maintain or even increase strength and dexterity. We’ll help you develop a personalized treatment program that fits your lifestyle and treatment goals. 

Contact us today to schedule your initial appointment and to learn more about our dedicated team.