Knee Osteoarthritis: What To Do?

The osteoarthritis is a disease that affects the joints and cartilage and can cause degenerative lesions. The arthritis can appear in different body areas, from the hands to the knee, in which we will focus precisely. Yes it should be noted first of all the important thing is not to underestimate the osteoarthritis symptoms; otherwise it is can impair the quality of life of sufferers.

What is Knee Osteoarthritis?
Knee osteoarthritis is a disease that affects the knee and, in particular, the cartilage of the joints. A deterioration that causes pain when moving or any physical activity is carried out, as well as the progressive deformity of the knee.

Osteoarthritis is one of the more common rheumatic diseases, especially after age 50, but can appear earlier. Knee osteoarthritis can have various causes.

On the one hand, it is called primary knee osteoarthritis, whose origin is unknown, and that is a result of the alteration of chondrocytes and the bone in that it is support, resulting in loss of pressure resistance, the elasticity of cartilage and its deterioration.

This often related to aging. On the other hand, knee osteoarthritis may also be caused by injury or abnormality of the joint (secondary knee osteoarthritis).

Common Causes of Knee Osteoarthritis

Several factors can contribute to the development of knee osteoarthritis. These include:

• Aging: As we age, the cartilage in the knee naturally wears down, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts added stress on the knee joint, accelerating cartilage breakdown.
• Previous Injuries: Injuries such as fractures, ligament tears, or meniscus damage can increase the risk of knee osteoarthritis later in life.
• Genetics: Family history plays a significant role in determining the likelihood of developing knee OA.
• Repetitive Stress: Jobs or activities that involve repetitive knee movements, such as heavy lifting or prolonged kneeling, can contribute to OA.

Most Obvious Symptoms Of Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis can vary from mild to severe. Some common symptoms include:

• Pain: A dull ache or sharp pain that worsens with activity, such as walking, standing, or climbing stairs.

• Stiffness: A feeling of tightness in the knee, especially after resting or in the morning.

• Swelling: Inflammation or fluid buildup around the knee joint, which can cause swelling and warmth.

• Reduced Range of Motion: Difficulty fully straightening or bending the knee.

• Crepitus: A cracking or popping sound when the knee moves.

Read Also: Pros and Cons of Hip Replacement

Treatment Options for Knee Osteoarthritis

Non-Surgical Treatments

For many individuals with knee osteoarthritis, non-surgical treatments can provide relief and help manage symptoms effectively.

1. Physical Therapy and Exercise

Exercise is one of the most effective non-invasive treatments for knee osteoarthritis. Strengthening the muscles surrounding the knee joint can help stabilize the joint and reduce stress on the cartilage. A physical therapist can design a customized exercise program that includes:

• Strengthening exercises: Focused on strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles to provide better knee support.

• Range-of-motion exercises: To improve flexibility and reduce stiffness in the knee.

• Low-impact aerobic exercises: Activities like cycling, swimming, or walking that improve cardiovascular health without putting undue stress on the knee joint.

2. Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for individuals with knee osteoarthritis. Every extra pound of body weight increases the stress on the knee joints, exacerbating the symptoms of OA. Losing even a small amount of weight can have a significant positive impact on reducing pain and improving mobility.

3. Medications

Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be helpful in managing pain and inflammation associated with knee OA. However, these medications should be used cautiously and as directed by a healthcare professional to avoid potential side effects.

4. Braces and Knee Supports

Knee braces and supports can provide additional stability and reduce pain during activities. These devices work by redistributing weight across the knee joint, alleviating pressure on the damaged areas. There are several types of knee braces, including:

• Unloader braces: Designed to shift the weight from the damaged side of the knee to the healthy side.

• Functional braces: Help stabilize the knee during movement, especially for those with instability.

5. Corticosteroid Injections

Corticosteroid injections can be used to reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief for individuals with knee osteoarthritis. These injections are typically recommended when other non-surgical treatments have not provided sufficient relief. However, they are not a long-term solution and should be used cautiously to avoid side effects such as cartilage damage.

6. Hyaluronic Acid Injections

Hyaluronic acid injections are a form of joint lubrication that can provide pain relief and improve joint function in individuals with knee OA. Hyaluronic acid is naturally present in the knee joint, and injecting it can help restore the lost lubrication, making it easier to move the knee and reducing friction.

Surgical Treatment Options

When non-surgical treatments no longer provide relief, or the condition has progressed to a more severe stage, surgery may be considered.

1. Arthroscopy

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure where a small camera and surgical instruments are inserted into the knee joint through tiny incisions. The surgeon can use this technique to remove damaged cartilage, repair torn ligaments, or perform other necessary procedures to relieve pain and improve function.

2. Partial Knee Replacement

In some cases, when osteoarthritis is limited to one part of the knee joint, a partial knee replacement may be performed. This procedure involves replacing only the damaged portion of the knee, leaving the healthy areas intact.

3. Total Knee Replacement

A total knee replacement is a more invasive procedure in which the entire knee joint is replaced with an artificial joint. This surgery is usually recommended for individuals with advanced knee osteoarthritis who have not found relief from other treatments. While the recovery time is longer than other surgical options, total knee replacement can significantly improve function and quality of life.