Stiff knees can make even simple movements feel like a challenge. Whether you’re an athlete, an active adult, or dealing with the effects of aging, knee stiffness can slow you down and impact your daily routine.
If you’re struggling with knee stiffness, Precision Orthopaedic Specialties offers expert care across three locations—Chardon, Chagrin Falls, and Middlefield, Ohio. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
Experiencing knee stiffness can be frustrating, but it’s important to understand the potential causes. Stiffness in the knee joint often results from inflammation, injury, or wear and tear over time. Some of the most common reasons include the following:
One of the leading causes of knee stiffness is knee osteoarthritis—a degenerative condition where the cartilage that cushions the bones wears away. This leads to knee pain, inflammation, and difficulty moving the joint.
People over 50, especially athletes and active adults, are more likely to develop osteoarthritis due to repetitive stress on the knee. Morning stiffness and pain that worsens after activity are common symptoms.
Damage to structures like the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), meniscus, or other knee ligaments can cause tight and stiff knees. Athletes who engage in high-impact sports like basketball, soccer, or football are at higher risk of ACL injuries. Post-injury inflammation and scar tissue formation can lead to prolonged knee stiffness if not treated properly.
After knee surgery or a traumatic injury, scar tissue can develop inside the joint. This can limit movement and cause unspecified knee pain. Conditions like arthrofibrosis—a buildup of scar tissue in the knee—can lead to significant mobility restrictions if left untreated.
While rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the joints, other types of inflammatory arthritis—such as post-traumatic arthritis—can also lead to knee stiffness.
Bursitis occurs when the bursae (fluid-filled sacs cushioning the joints) become inflamed. There are two bursae in the knee, one in front of the kneecap, the other between the shin bone and hamstring tendons inside the knee. Bursitis can contribute to stiffness and discomfort in the knee.
Sedentary lifestyles, prolonged sitting, or poor posture can lead to stiffness over time.
If the muscles supporting the knee—such as the quadriceps and hamstrings—are weak or tight, they can contribute to knee pain and restricted movement. Regular stretching and strength training can help prevent stiffness caused by muscle imbalances.
The right treatment for knee stiffness depends on its cause and severity. Fortunately, a variety of treatment options can help restore flexibility, reduce discomfort, and prevent long-term joint damage.
For mild cases of knee stiffness, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) can help reduce swelling and ease discomfort. Applying ice for 15–20 minutes every few hours can minimize inflammation while keeping the knee elevated can promote circulation and healing.
A structured physical therapy program can help improve knee mobility, strengthen surrounding muscles, and prevent stiffness from worsening. Common exercises include:
Wearing knee braces can provide extra stability, especially for those recovering from an injury or dealing with chronic knee pain. Braces can help reduce strain on the joint and improve alignment, making movement easier and less painful.
For those experiencing knee osteoarthritis or inflammatory arthritis, over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen can help manage swelling and pain. In more severe cases, corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections can help lubricate the joint and provide longer-lasting relief.
If conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical options may be necessary. These can include:
The best treatment plan will depend on the severity of your symptoms and your long-term mobility goals. A knee specialist can help determine the right course of action.
You don’t have to live with stiff knees or limited mobility. Whether your stiffness is caused by a sports injury, arthritis, or everyday wear and tear, our specialists at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties offer cutting-edge treatments tailored to your needs.
With expert care at four convenient locations in Chardon, Chagrin Falls, and Middlefield, OH, we are dedicated to helping patients of all ages restore function and relieve knee pain. Our team of orthopedic experts provides personalized treatment plans to get you moving again—whether you’re an athlete looking to get back in the game or an active adult aiming to maintain a pain-free lifestyle.
Don’t let knee stiffness slow you down. Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward better knee health!
Medically reviewed by Jamie DelVecchio, D.O.
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Precision Orthopaedic Specialties is a leading provider of orthopaedic surgery, sports medicine, podiatry, physical therapy, athletic training, and state-of-the-art medical imaging including MRI.