What is cartilage?

It is the covering of the end of the bones in the joint, it cushions and protects the bone, while providing a smooth gliding surface.

What does arthritis of the knee look like?

The Oxford dictionary defines arthritis as "inflammation of the joint." In simple terms it is the result of wearing away of the cartilage surface. The result is a rough surface that restricts motion.

Xrays of the knee

What are the symptoms of knee arthritis?

* Pain and stiffness in the knee

* Swelling

* Difficulty getting up from a chair or in/out of the car

* Pain and/or weaknes with walking

* Giving way of the knee

* Decreased level of activity

* Dimished quality of life

What causes arthritis of the knee?

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. It is the result of wearing away of the cartilage surface. It is similar to wearing out the tread on a tire.

Rheumatoid arthritis is due to an inflammatory reaction within the joint that over time deteriorates the cartilage.

Meniscal tear may coincide with arthritis of the knee and may either be the cause or the result of arthritis in the knee. Some patients that had previous knee arthroscopy for a torn meniscus may develop arthritis in the knee.

Osteonecrosis is a condition wear the bone below the joint surface dies and allows the overylying cartilage to collapse.

Trauma or an injury to a joint may cause arthritis.