People with this level of functional restriction may experience persistent swelling (effusions) of their hips, knees, ankles and/or feet. Deformity of some or all of these joints may be present. There may be instability of one or both knees. Pain and joint stiffness would be present on rising in the morning, or following prolonged inactivity, for up to one hour. However, there may be periods of “flare-ups” when increased help is needed with self-care. A “flare-up” typically lasts between 10 to 14 days.

A person with moderate restriction may have significant difficulty getting around in terms of distance due to an abnormal gait, walking stiffly and with a limp. They will be unable to walk at normal speed and distance is likely to be in the range of 40-100 metres. Such a person may need physical assistance from another person in getting around and may require guidance or supervision outdoors.

A person with moderate restriction may have difficulties with getting out of a normal height chair, out of bed, rising from a toilet and getting out of a bath. These problems would normally be most severe after resting. The use of prescribed assistive equipment such as a raised chair, a raised toilet seat or grab rails may help to reduce these difficulties. Such a person may have knee instability, which could indicate risk of falls, though use of prescribed assistive equipment such as a stick may help to reduce this. No supervision or watching over needs are likely to be present.