Symptoms

Pain and swelling accompany most knee problems. Symptoms with arthritis develop gradually, however, you'll typically have worst symptoms after activities. As your knee cartilage begins to erode, your knee may feel only a little stiff. You'll feel a more intense pain as the cartilage breaks down and the bones begin to rub against each other. Other problems you may experience include the inability to completely straighten the knee or instability. You may also feel your knee "giving out" when you stand or walk.