I looked at the X-ray image while waiting for the doctor to enter the examination room. I could see a metal clip on the right side and some tiny shiny particles scattered around the joint — marks and remnants of past surgeries. I then skimmed through several illustrations explaining common joint injuries posted on the wall.

The doctor opened the door; we shook hands, introduced ourselves, and he sat down, turned to the monitor, and selected a new image. This one had measurements comparing the space between the tibia and femur in both knees. He looked at me and said, “See how there’s no space on the outer side of your right knee? The meniscus and the cartilage are gone. Bones are rubbing against each other. That’s arthritis.”