Knee OsteoarthritisTreatment & Recovery
Understand symptoms and causes, what recovery typically looks like, and how physiotherapy helps you get moving confidently.
What is Knee Osteoarthritis and how does physiotherapy help?
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) describes age‑related change within the joint that can cause pain and stiffness. Most people improve with activity, education and strengthening.
Physiotherapy focuses on pain reduction, function and confidence. Many improve within 6–12 weeks with a structured plan.
Support often includes pacing strategies, footwear/bracing guidance and a clear progression plan so increased activity feels achievable and safe.
Typical recovery timeline
- 2–6 weeks: symptom settling, early strength and mobility
- 6–12 weeks: functional gains, daily tasks easier
- 12+ weeks: higher‑load activity as tolerated
Understanding Knee Osteoarthritis
Risk factors
- Age: most common after 45–50 years
- Previous injury: meniscus/ligament injuries
- Load and weight: higher loads on the joint
- Biomechanics: hip/ankle contributions
Imaging considerations
X‑ray shows joint space and bony changes; severity on imaging does not always match pain levels. Imaging is considered if symptoms don’t follow the expected pattern.
UK‑specific impact
Knee osteoarthritis affects work participation across UK industries. Early access to physiotherapy supports function and can reduce onward healthcare use.
What causes Knee Osteoarthritis?
Age‑related change
Gradual cartilage changes and bone remodeling.
Previous injury
Meniscal or ligament injury increases risk.
Load spikes
Sudden increases in walking, kneeling, or stairs.
Biomechanics
Hip/ankle mobility and strength influence the knee.
What are the symptoms?
Primary symptoms
- Pain with load: stairs, squatting, longer walks
- Morning stiffness: easing within 30 minutes
- Limited range: reduced range of motion
- Weakness: muscle weakness around the knee/hip
- Occasional swelling/crepitus with higher loads
Related symptoms: Knee pain, Swelling, Reduced range of motion, Muscle weakness
How can physiotherapy help?
Care focuses on pain, mobility and confidence to return to daily activities.
Core components
- Education, pacing and flare‑up planning
- Mobility work for knee, hips and ankles
- Progressive strengthening (quads, glutes, calves)
- Walking and balance training
- Weight management and activity planning where appropriate
Effective treatments
Manual therapy
Hands‑on techniques to reduce pain and improve mobility.
Exercise therapy
Progressive strengthening and movement practice.
Education
Load management, pacing and recurrence prevention.
Support
Footwear, braces or walking aids where appropriate.
What happens in a physiotherapy session?
Assessment covers pain, range, strength and gait. A plan is created with education, exercises and (if needed) manual therapy.
Home exercises support progress across 6–12 weeks. Goal setting and flare‑up planning are used to guide week‑to‑week progress.
Can you manage knee osteoarthritis at home?
Yes—simple changes help most people. Build up activity gradually, spread load across the week, and keep strengthening routine but realistic.
Ideas to try
- Short walks or cycling to tolerance
- 2–3 strength sessions per week for legs and hips
- Use rails for stairs while confidence returns
- Plan rest days after higher‑load tasks
- Use a simple “pacing ladder” (small, frequent activity rather than long bursts)
When should you seek help?
Urgent assessment
- Severe pain after trauma with inability to weight‑bear
- Red flags (fever, hot swollen joint, unremitting night pain)
Consult a physiotherapist if
- Symptoms persist beyond 6–8 weeks
- Difficulty with daily activities or work
- Ongoing giving‑way or locking
Accessing care in the UK
Access physiotherapy via GP referral on the NHS, or directly through private clinics (often faster access). Insurance or employer health plans may help with costs.
FAQs
Do I need a scan?
Not usually. X‑ray is considered if symptoms persist or another diagnosis is suspected.
Should I avoid stairs?
You can often keep using stairs with pacing and rails; build up gradually.
How many sessions will I need?
Commonly 6–12 over several weeks, adjusted to goals and progress.
Can I keep walking?
Yes—most benefit from regular, tolerable walking. Adjust distance if flares last more than 24 hours.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.