RehabifyCommon causes
- Osteoarthritis, the slow wear and repair of the joint, often in both knees
- Pain at the front of the knee (patellofemoral pain), common in younger and active people
- Meniscus or ligament injury, often after a twist
- Tendon pain below or above the kneecap
- Weak thigh and hip muscles, which put more load on the knee
- Less common causes such as inflammatory arthritis, gout or infection, which the doctor checks for
Who should see a doctor
Signs to get checked
- Knee pain that lasts more than 2 to 3 weeks or keeps coming back
- Pain that stops you walking, climbing stairs or sleeping
- A knee that locks, gives way or swells
- Knee pain with falls or poor balance
What happens at Rehabify
- 01
History
When it started, what makes it worse, your work, activity and any past injury.
- 02
Examination
Swelling, range of movement, ligament tests, muscle strength, walking and balance.
- 03
Scans if needed
A standing X-ray is often enough. MRI is advised only if it will change your treatment.
- 04
Your plan
Exercise to strengthen the thigh and hip muscles, weight and activity advice, and medicines for comfort. An image-guided injection may be offered if pain stays high despite this.
- 05
Rehab
A graded programme with a physiotherapist and at home, with balance work to lower the risk of falls.
The doctor decides the right tests and treatment for you after examining you.
Before and after your visit
How to prepare
- Bring X-rays, scans and a list of medicines
- Wear shorts or loose trousers that roll up above the knee
- Bring the shoes you walk in most days
- Note what you find hard: stairs, squatting, sitting on the floor, walking distance
After your visit
You leave with a written plan, home exercises and a review date. You can send questions on WhatsApp between visits.
When to get help urgently
Common questions
Is walking bad for knee osteoarthritis?
No. Walking and strengthening exercise are among the most helpful treatments. Start with short walks and build up. Pain that settles within a day is usually safe.
Can knee osteoarthritis be reversed?
The changes in the joint do not reverse, but pain and function often improve a lot with exercise, weight loss and good pain control.
Do knee injections help?
Steroid injections can ease a flare for some weeks. Other injections, such as hyaluronic acid or PRP, have mixed evidence. The doctor will explain the options and whether any are suitable for you.
Will I need a knee replacement?
Many people do not. If pain and function stay poor despite good treatment, the doctor will discuss a referral to an orthopaedic surgeon.
Does losing weight help my knees?
Yes. Even a small weight loss reduces the load on the knee and often reduces pain.
Sources
- [1]
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guideline NG226. Osteoarthritis in over 16s: diagnosis and management
- [2]
American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and Arthritis Foundation guideline for osteoarthritis of the hand. hip and knee, 2019
- [3]
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) clinical practice guideline. Management of osteoarthritis of the knee (non-arthroplasty)
This page is for general education and does not replace a consultation. The right plan depends on your examination.