Grinding Sensation in Your Knee? Cartilage Damage May Need Arthroscopy

If you’ve ever felt a grinding, clicking, or catching sensation in your knee, especially when walking, squatting, or climbing stairs, you’re not alone. This uncomfortable symptom could be more than just wear and tear—it might be a sign of cartilage damage. At Dr. Rami Hamed Center (DRHC) in Dubai, our orthopedic specialists are here to help you understand what’s happening inside your knee and whether arthroscopy could be the solution to relieve your pain and restore your mobility.

What Is Cartilage and Why Does It Matter?

Cartilage is the smooth, rubbery tissue that covers the ends of bones inside joints. It acts as a cushion and helps your knee move smoothly. When this cartilage becomes worn down, torn, or damaged, it can cause painful friction—leading to that grinding or clicking feeling in your knee.

Cartilage damage doesn’t always heal on its own because cartilage has a limited blood supply. Left untreated, it can worsen over time and potentially lead to osteoarthritis.

What Causes Cartilage Damage in the Knee?

Several factors can lead to cartilage injury or degeneration:

Sports injuries or sudden trauma
Repetitive stress from exercise or work
Age-related wear and tear
Previous knee injuries or surgeries
Obesity or excess body weight
Genetics or pre-existing joint conditions

If you're noticing persistent knee pain, swelling, stiffness, or a grinding sensation, it's important to have your knee evaluated early. The sooner we understand the issue, the better we can help preserve your joint health.

What Is Knee Arthroscopy and When Is It Needed?

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows orthopedic surgeons to diagnose and treat problems inside the knee joint using a small camera and specialized instruments. It’s often recommended when:

Non-surgical treatments haven’t provided relief
There is suspected cartilage damage, meniscus tears, or loose fragments
Imaging (MRI or X-ray) shows abnormalities
The knee "locks" or gives way

At DRHC Dubai, knee arthroscopy is performed by experienced orthopedic surgeons using advanced techniques that prioritize safety, precision, and a faster recovery.

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Frequently Asked Questions

🦵 Is arthroscopy painful?

Arthroscopy is performed under anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Afterward, some discomfort is expected, but it’s usually manageable with prescribed pain medication and cold therapy. Most patients report that the pain is significantly less than with traditional surgery.

🦵 How long is recovery after knee arthroscopy?

Recovery varies depending on the extent of cartilage damage and the treatment performed. Most patients can walk with support within a few days, return to desk work within a week, and resume low-impact activities in 4 to 6 weeks. A tailored physiotherapy program at DRHC helps speed up healing and restore mobility.

🦵 Are there alternatives to surgery?

Yes, especially in the early stages. Options may include:

Anti-inflammatory medications
Physical therapy
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
Hyaluronic acid injections
Lifestyle changes (e.g., weight management, activity modifications)

However, if cartilage damage is advanced or causes mechanical symptoms, arthroscopy may offer the best long-term relief.

🦵 What are the risks of knee arthroscopy?

As with any surgery, risks exist but are rare, especially when performed by skilled specialists. These include infection, bleeding, or stiffness. At DRHC, we take every precaution to minimize complications and ensure a safe, smooth recovery.

When to See a Specialist

You should seek medical advice if you experience:

Ongoing grinding or clicking in your knee
Swelling that doesn't go away
Pain that interferes with daily life
Sensations of the knee “locking” or giving out
Limited knee mobility

Early diagnosis can prevent further damage and help preserve your joint.

Expert Knee Care at DRHC Dubai

At Dr. Rami Hamed Center (DRHC) in Dubai, our orthopedic team specializes in diagnosing and treating knee conditions using the latest techniques, including arthroscopy. We understand that surgery can feel overwhelming, which is why we take the time to walk you through your options with empathy and care. Our focus is on minimally invasive solutions, faster recovery times, and helping you get back to doing what you love—pain-free.

Book a Consultation Today

If you're concerned about a grinding sensation in your knee or think you may have cartilage damage, don’t wait. Our team at DRHC Dubai is here to help you find the right treatment path—whether it’s non-surgical therapy or advanced arthroscopic care.

Call +97142798200 us now to schedule your consultation today!
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