Symptoms

Arthrosis can remain symptom-free for a long time, depending on the training condition and general constitution. The final diagnosis is made by imaging procedures, usually by X-ray diagnosis. The X-ray image then shows a narrowed joint space and possibly even bony extensions on the joint surfaces.

Extensive information on this topic can be found in the following article: Knee arthrosis symptoms/pain

In the early stages, osteoarthritis manifests itself through pain at the beginning of a movement, which disappears again when the movement lasts longer. Pain can also manifest itself under heavy loads, when descending stairs or walking downhill.
Activated arthrosis means that an inflammatory process has begun, for example in response to overloading. In this case the knee is thick and swollen, the skin is red and feels hot. This condition can be improved by sparing and decongestant therapy, but the arthrosis itself is not curable.
In the advanced stage, almost no movement is possible without pain. Pain can also occur at rest and at night.

Pain

Pain is one of the most important symptoms in the diagnosis and treatment of knee arthrosis. In principle, the intensity of the pain does not allow us to conclude how far advanced the arthrosis is already. However, in most cases the pain gets worse the narrower the joint space becomes, since the joint cartilage does not have any pain receptors, but the periosteum is very sensitive to pain.

As soon as the periosteum is irritated or bone rubs against bone, the pain and movement restrictions typical of osteoarthritis develop. For pain therapy, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen are usually recommended, but only symptom-oriented and not as long-term medication. In addition to their pain-relieving effect, these drugs have an anti-inflammatory effect. Cortisone, which can be injected directly into the joint together with a local anaesthetic, can also contribute to anti-inflammatory effects. This local therapy does not treat the cause of the arthrosis in any way, but merely alleviates the symptoms.