What does arthritis on just one side of the knee feel like?

Typical symptoms of inner-side arthritis

• Pain along the inner joint line, often described as deep and aching
• Worse after walking, standing for long periods or going down stairs
• Stiffness first thing in the morning or after sitting, easing within about half an hour
• Swelling after a busy day
• A gradually more bow-legged appearance on the affected side
• Night aching as arthritis progresses

Outer-side and kneecap arthritis

When the outer compartment is affected, the pain is on the outside of the knee and the leg may drift into a knock-kneed position. Arthritis behind the kneecap feels different: pain at the front, especially on stairs, rising from a low chair, kneeling and sitting with the knee bent for a long time. Pain all around the knee more often means more than one area is involved.

Conditions that can feel similar

Inner knee pain can also come from a degenerative meniscus tear, a meniscus root tear, pes anserine bursitis below the joint, or a stress reaction in the bone called subchondral insufficiency. Some of these can come on suddenly, for example after a twist or a sudden sharp pain during prayer or walking. They are treated differently, so a proper diagnosis matters.

Red flags

Seek prompt care for a hot, red, swollen knee with fever, a knee that suddenly cannot bear weight, true locking that will not release, or calf swelling and pain. These are not typical of slow arthritis.

Getting it assessed in Doha

At Aman Hospital, Dr. Gelber asks you to point to where it hurts, examines the joint line, ligaments and alignment, and arranges standing X-rays. If the pattern fits one-compartment arthritis and simpler treatment is no longer enough, he will discuss whether a partial replacement suits you.