A knee that aches on stairs, stiffens after sitting and “creaks” with movement? Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of knee pain after 50 — and one of the most treatable without surgery, when the programme is right.
What is knee osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is the gradual wear of the cartilage inside the knee joint. The cartilage thins, the underlying bone reacts, and the joint becomes painful and stiff. It develops over years — which means its course can be slowed with correct movement and stronger muscles.
Common symptoms
Knee pain when walking, on stairs and when rising from a chair; morning stiffness under 30 minutes; creaking or grinding sensations; swelling after activity; and, over time, reduced bending and a feeling of instability.
Common causes and risk factors
Age-related wear, excess weight (each extra kilogram multiplies the load on the knee), old injuries to the meniscus or ligaments, weak thigh muscles, leg alignment issues and high-impact work or sport done with poor mechanics.
Can it be treated without surgery?
In mild and moderate stages — yes. International guidelines put therapeutic exercise, weight management and education first, not surgery. Knee replacement remains the answer for advanced stages that no longer respond to properly conducted conservative care.
How we treat knee osteoarthritis at Medicine Park
After assessing your knee, hip and gait mechanics, we build a progressive programme strengthening the quadriceps and glutes, dosed joint mobility work, manual therapy for tight structures, and practical activity and weight guidance — all in English. The goal: less pain, safer walking, surgery postponed or avoided.
How long until results?
Most patients feel improvement within 4–6 weeks of consistent work. The full benefit of muscle strengthening builds over 2–3 months and is maintained through regular movement.
When to seek help
If knee pain is changing how you walk, waking you at night or limiting your activities — do not wait for the advanced stage. Your first assessment at Medicine Park is free.
