Knee osteoarthritis, also known as gonarthrosis, is a common type of knee pain caused by the gradual wear and tear of cartilage. Although it cannot be fully cured, several solutions can help relieve pain, reduce inflammatory flare-ups, support the joint and preserve quality of life.
Knee osteoarthritis is a progressive condition that affects the articular cartilage. When this cartilage becomes thinner, the bone surfaces are less protected. As a result, the knee becomes more sensitive to pressure, repeated movements and everyday strain.
The knee is a heavily used joint. It absorbs a large portion of the body’s weight during walking, climbing stairs or bending movements. Over the years, these repeated small impacts can contribute to cartilage wear and lead to mechanical pain. In some cases, osteoarthritis may also be accompanied by inflammation, swelling or an effusion, which is an accumulation of fluid in the joint.
Osteoarthritis can affect one knee or both. It can also affect different areas of the joint, including the inner compartment, the outer compartment or the joint between the kneecap and the femur.
Knee osteoarthritis is often linked to several risk factors. Age is one of the most common, as joint tissues regenerate less effectively over time. Cartilage then becomes more vulnerable to repeated stress.
The symptoms of knee osteoarthritis often appear gradually. At first, pain may occur after a long walk, climbing stairs or a more demanding activity. Over time, it may become more noticeable in daily life and lead to functional limitations.
The most common signs include:
Morning stiffness is often short-lived. It may ease after a few minutes of movement.
Some people may also experience inflammatory flare-ups, with a knee that feels warmer, more swollen or more sensitive. These episodes can increase knee swelling and make movement more difficult for a few days.
When the knee no longer bends as well as it used to, other joints may begin to compensate, such as the hip, ankle or back. This is often when the pain starts to interfere more noticeably with daily activities.
Once knee osteoarthritis has developed, the goal is to relieve pain, reduce stress on the joint and preserve mobility. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition, symptoms, lifestyle and activity level.
A knee brace can help relieve pain associated with osteoarthritis by stabilizing the joint and reducing pressure on certain painful areas.
Foot orthotics may be recommended when foot alignment affects knee mechanics. Custom-made orthotics help improve support, assist with walking and promote better alignment from the foot to the knee.
Proper footwear can improve comfort by absorbing impact more effectively and supporting the feet during walking. Depending on the situation, orthopedic shoes may be recommended, particularly in cases of instability, alignment issues or when additional support is needed.
Even with osteoarthritis, it is important to keep moving. Regular physical activity helps maintain mobility, strengthen the muscles around the knee and reduce stiffness. Low-impact activities, such as walking, cycling, swimming or gentle exercises, are often better tolerated.
Knee osteoarthritis does not progress the same way for everyone. Some people mainly experience mild stiffness. Others live with more significant pain, reduced mobility or difficulty staying active.
At Médicus, support begins by listening to each person’s symptoms and needs. Our orthotists aim to understand what limits the person in daily life: walking, stairs, work, hobbies or longer outings.
Based on this assessment, they can recommend an appropriate solution, such as a knee brace, knee support, foot orthotics or a biomechanical evaluation. The goal is to identify what can truly improve comfort, stability and confidence in movement.
