Knee Pain Knowledge Hub
Are you suffering from relentless, chronic knee pain?
Our knowledge hub will help you assess what might be causing your knee pain, treatment options, and when to consider a knee replacement. Take the next step towards a more active, pain-free and mobile life.
Knee Pain - Knowledge Hub
Causes, Treatments & When to Consider Surgery
Knee pain can start as a minor irritation—but over time, it can affect your mobility, independence, and quality of life. This guide will help you understand what’s causing your knee pain, explore your treatment options, and decide when to seek specialist care.
Not sure where to begin?
Choose the option that best describes how you feel:
1
"I have knee pain but I don’t know why"
Start with understanding common causes of knee pain
Am I ready for a knee replacement?
Determining if knee replacement surgery is appropriate involves assessing various factors related to the knee pain you are experiencing, function and overall health. A knee replacement might be necessary if persistent knee pain.
- Pain affecting sleep
- Limited mobility
- Daily activities impacted
Take the Knee Replacement Suitability Assessment »
1. I have knee pain, but I don’t know why…
The early signs that you might need a knee replacement often start subtly and gradually worsen over time. Many patients initially put these symptoms down to “just getting older” or a minor injury—but there are some clear indicators to watch for.
Most people don’t go from “fine” to needing a knee replacement overnight.
It’s usually a slow decline eg. pain → stiffness → reduced mobility → lifestyle impact.
Catching it early gives you more options (physio, injections, lifestyle changes), and helps you plan the right time for surgery if needed.
are you Thinking about paying for your knee surgery via finance?
Apply for 0% finance today!
Through the Nuffield Hospital and Chrysalis Finance, we are pleased to offer flexible finance options for you to pay for your surgery in 6, 10 or 12 interest-free monthly instalments (representative 0% APR). Longer-term payment options are also available at 14.9% APR* with no added costs or admin fees. Once you know the price of your treatment, you can calculate your monthly payments on the Chrysalis Finance website.What could be causing your knee pain?
Knee pain can be caused by wear and tear, injury, or underlying conditions—and symptoms can vary significantly from person to person.
Here are some of the most common conditions we treat:
Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Degeneration of joint cartilage leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility.
→ Learn more about knee osteoarthritis
Meniscus Tears
Damage to the cartilage cushioning in the knee, often causing pain, swelling, and locking sensations.
Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper’s Knee)
Inflammation of the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone, often linked to overuse.
total knee replacement surgery Process
Wondering what happens the the knee replacement process? This short video details what you can expect.
In total knee replacement surgery, Mr Stitson will make a midline incision on the front of your knee and move your kneecap or patella to the side to access the knee joint behind it.
He will use precision jigs and a saw to remove and re-shape the damaged ends of the shin bone and thigh bone. The new components are then fitted to the ends of both bones using bone cement to create the new joint. The components are usually made of metal (cobalt-chrome or titanium) and plastic (high-density polyethylene).
2. I want to explore treatment options
What are your options for treating knee pain?
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your symptoms. Many patients improve with non-surgical approaches, while others may benefit from surgical intervention.
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Physiotherapy
- Strengthening exercises
- Activity modification
- Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication
Injection Therapy
Targeted injections can help manage inflammation and reduce pain, particularly in arthritic conditions.
Knee Arthroscopy
A knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat a range of knee injuries including ongoing knee pain, meniscus tears and osteoarthritis. It is sometimes also used as a diagnostic procedure.
Knee Replacement Surgery
A medical-grade Polyethylene bearing is inserted between the metal components creating a smooth gliding surface and providing stability to the prosthetic joint. A knee replacement is a highly effective procedure for severe arthritis or joint damage, helping restore mobility and reduce pain.
Explore Knee Replacement in Detail »
3. I think I may need a knee replacement
Is your knee pain affecting your quality of life?
You may benefit from a specialist orthopaedic consultation with David Stitson if:
✔ Knee pain is persistent and worsening
✔ You struggle with walking, stairs, or standing for long periods
✔ Your knee feels unstable or gives way
✔ Daily activities are becoming difficult
✔ Non-surgical treatments are no longer effective
YOUR TREATMENT JOURNEY
What to expect from consultation to recovery.
Knowing what lies ahead can make your decision more straightforward and reassuring.
1. Initial Consultation
A detailed discussion about your symptoms, lifestyle, and goals.
2. Diagnosis
Physical examination and imaging (e.g. X-ray or MRI if required).
3. Personalised Treatment Plan
Clear recommendations tailored to your condition.
4. Treatment or Surgery
If surgery is recommended, you’ll receive full preparation guidance.
5. Recovery & Rehabilitation
Structured physiotherapy and support to help you regain strength and mobility.
Learn more about what to expect »
WHY CHOOSE DAVID STITSON FOR YOUR KNEE REPLACEMENT?
QUALIFIED CONSULTANT SURGEON
From your initial consultation, through to diagnosis, treatment, and aftercare, you can be confident Mr Stitson will provide you with the best skills and expertise ensuring that you receive the most appropriate and individually tailored surgical or non-surgical solution to ensure the best outcome possible.
DELIGHTED PATIENTS
"Mr Stitson is the most professional surgeon. He is not only professional but also very kind. He takes his time to explain the procedure and what will happen and I can honestly say he has changed my life. I cannot thank him enough."
EXTENSIVE MEDICAL EXPERIENCE
Mr Stitson has developed his extensive experience as a knee replacement and hip replacement surgeon through his 20+ years of practice. He is a member of the British Orthopaedic Association and remains a member of the Combined Services Orthopaedic Society.
EASY APPOINTMENTS
Booking a consultation is easy; simply send a message to request an appointment using the online form or you can enquire by email: enquiries@orthopaedicsplymouth.co.uk or phone: 01752 761818.
“Mr Stitson assesses, diagnoses and treats more than 2000 patients every year and will ensure that you receive an accurate diagnosis together with considered advice and options enabling you to make a fully informed decision before proceeding with your treatment.”
WHAT OUR PATIENTS SAY...
Mr David Stitson is in Private Practice at Nuffield Health Plymouth Hospital, Derriford Road, Plymouth, PL6 8BG.
He accepts new patient referrals directly from patients, via GP referral, on recommendation from your private medical insurer or via other practitioners including physiotherapists, Osteopaths or chiropractors.
Please do get in touch with us to enquire about an appointment or a procedure.