Commonly found in older patients, the joint becomes roughened leading to pain, stiffness and swelling of the knee. Patients may become increasingly bow-legged or knock-kneed. As the condition worsens, pain can be felt at rest disturbing sleep and it may become difficult to fully straighten the knee or to kneel. In mild cases, symptoms can be controlled with pain killers or anti-inflammatory medication.

Orthopaedic aids may help with mobility and activity medication or weight loss may also lessen symptoms. Physiotherapy may be advised to maintain muscle strength around the knee to alleviate symptoms. Injections can be useful for short-term pain relief although long term measures may include partial or total knee replacement. These operations aim to replace worn out parts of the joint with artificial components. The replacement may not last forever and can become loose requiring a further procedure; a revision knee replacement. However, the majority last for 10 years or more.