Question
I experience pain in my knee when climbing stairs, and it’s disturbed when stepping on the stairs. I’m cautious with using my knee and afraid of falling and re-injuring it. What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee?
Answer
Initially, symptoms may include joint pain with minimal swelling or mild edema, a cracking sound during movement, joint pain or discomfort when ascending or descending stairs or exerting force, and long-term walking may result in joint warmth, stiffness, and pain. Secondary symptoms include joint swelling, mild pain, discomfort during squatting or bending, muscle atrophy in some patients, and swelling after excessive activity. Morning symptoms are usually milder and evening symptoms are more relaxed; unable to walk for long periods, walking too much may cause a tingling and swelling sensation in the lower legs, with an increasing amount of effusion. Severe symptoms include significant joint swelling and pain, accompanied by effusion, bone spurs, and loose bodies.