INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis — affecting about 32.5 million Americans. It happens when cartilage that cushions bone wears out over time. It often affects the knees, causing pain and stiffness. However, there are some ways to ease the discomfort.

Knee arthritis can make every step a struggle, and it can sideline anyone, not just the elderly.

“Patients are getting younger because we’re simply more active. We’re beating up our joints more so we’re getting earlier arthritis,” said Richard Berger, MD, orthopedic surgeon at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush.

Repetitive stress, your genes and carrying around extra weight can all contribute to the condition.

“As the population has gotten...