London, July 27 - With the help of an ultrasound, researchers are hoping to find out if knee inflammation could be an early sign of osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis is known as a 'wear and tear' condition in which cartilage wears away, leaving bones rubbing together painfully. Recently scientists have shown that inflammation in the joint lining may also play a role in its development.

At the moment osteoarthritis can only be identified by x-ray, which is limited to revealing changes in bones and degeneration of cartilage.

It does not show any changes or inflammation to the surrounding soft tissue or joint lining. This inflammation may also contribute to pain and stiffness and could, in fact, be a precursor to osteoarthritis.