One of the most common warning signs is pain that repeatedly returns.

At first, discomfort may appear mainly after prolonged walking, climbing stairs, exercising, or standing for extended periods.

As joint disease progresses, pain may become more frequent.

Some people experience discomfort after sitting for a long time and then standing up. Others notice pain during ordinary activities that previously caused no problems.

Persistent or worsening knee pain should not simply be attributed to getting older.

2. Stiffness After Rest

Another common symptom is stiffness.

You may notice that your knee feels difficult to move after waking up or after sitting for an extended period.

With osteoarthritis, this stiffness is often relatively short-lived and improves as the joint begins moving.

However, prolonged morning stiffness can have other causes, including inflammatory arthritis.

That distinction is important because different causes of joint symptoms may require different approaches to treatment.

3. Swelling Around the Knee

A damaged or irritated knee may become swollen.

Swelling can occur because of inflammation or an accumulation of excess joint fluid.

You might notice that one knee looks larger than the other or that the area surrounding the joint feels tight.

Sudden swelling, particularly after an injury, may indicate a problem that requires prompt evaluation.

If swelling is accompanied by significant redness, warmth, fever, or severe pain, medical attention is especially important.

4. Grinding, Clicking, or Cracking Sounds

Some people with knee osteoarthritis experience sensations or sounds such as: