Buckling and Locking
Over time, changes in the joint can cause the structure of the knee to become unstable. This can lead to giving way or buckling. RA can damage the tendons, which attach the muscle to the bone, which in turn, can affect the knee’s stability. As the cartilage erodes and the bony areas rub together, bone spurs can also develop. These give rise to a bumpy surface that may cause the joint lock up or stick, making it difficult to bend or straighten out.