The knee is the largest and strongest joint in your body. The ends of the femur, tibia, and patella are covered with articular cartilage; a smooth, slippery substance that protects and cushions the bones. Your meniscus are wedge-shaped pieces of cartilage that act as shock-absorbers between your thighbone and shinbone. They're tough and rubbery to help cushion the joint and keep it stable.
Arthritis is the overarching term that describes inflammation in joints and encompasses a wide array of specific conditions related to the inflammation. Osteoarthritis, also known as a form of degenerative joint disease, is the most common type of arthritis. It is associated with a breakdown of cartilage in joints and commonly occurs in the hips, knees, and spine.
If you have a knee affected by arthritis, you may feel some pain and inflammation associated with the joint. In the vast majority of cases, the pain develops gradually over a period of time and may feel as though it is getting incrementally worse. Sudden onset is also possible, however this is generally as a result of serious accident or injury.
Common symptoms that may present include:
• The joint may become stiff and swollen, making it difficult to bend and straighten the knee.
• If you increase your physical activity suddenly or excessively, pain may worsen.
• Some particles of cartilage may get in the way of the movement in your knee, causing several abnormal sensations, including popping, clicking, and grinding sounds.
• Pain in the knee can cause a feeling of weakness or buckling in the knee.
• Many people with arthritis note increased joint pain when the weather changes.