Overview • Osteoarthritis of the Knee • Treatment Options

OA is the most common form of knee arthritis usually progressing slowly whereby the joint cartilage gradually wears away. It is also referred to as "wear & tear" arthritis. In contrast rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory type of arthritis that destroys cartilage.

The onset of OA is gradual and symptoms include stiffness and swelling of the knee leading to reduced mobility. Pain and swelling are worse after prolonged periods of inactivity or after stressful activities like walking, stair climbing or kneeling. OA is classified into 4 grades, with Grade 1 being the least severe to Grade 4, which is the most severe form of the disease.