Knee Osteoarthritis: Causes and Treatment Methods

What is Knee Osteoarthritis?

Knee osteoarthritis is a medical condition caused by the erosion of cartilage in the knee joint and the depletion of synovial fluid, which reduces friction between the bones forming the joint. This results in limited knee joint movement, often accompanied by pain and localized swelling in the knee area.

Knee osteoarthritis, also known as knee osteoarthritis, occurs when the cartilage in the knee joint wears away. Cartilage acts as a cushion between the bones, absorbing shocks and facilitating smooth joint movement. Its erosion leads to bone friction, causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility.

Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis:

• Pain: Can be constant or intermittent, often worsening after physical activity or by the end of the day.
• Stiffness: Difficulty moving the knee, especially after rest.
• Swelling: Caused by joint inflammation.
• Cracking Sound: A popping or grinding noise when moving the knee.
• Weakness: Difficulty walking or performing daily activities.

Causes of Knee Osteoarthritis:

1. Aging: Natural cartilage degeneration over time.
2. Excess Weight: Increased joint stress accelerates cartilage wear.
3. Previous Injuries: Fractures or ligament tears increase osteoarthritis risk.
4. Excessive Physical Activity: High-impact sports can lead to cartilage damage.
5. Genetics: Family history may predispose individuals to the condition.
6. Weak Muscles: Weak surrounding muscles put more strain on the joint.
7. Anatomical Abnormalities: Misaligned bones lead to uneven cartilage wear.
8. Other Medical Conditions: Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis can contribute.

Clinical Presentation of Knee Osteoarthritis:

• Pain during movements like walking or climbing stairs.
• Cracking sounds due to bone friction.
• Swelling and redness after activity.
• Advanced cases may cause joint stiffness, immobility, and muscle atrophy, leading to difficulty walking.

Prevention of Knee Osteoarthritis:

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress.
• Engage in regular exercise, including strength and flexibility training.
• Avoid overexertion and ensure proper recovery periods.
• Use supportive footwear and avoid high-impact activities.
• Ensure a balanced diet rich in calcium and Vitamin D.

Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis:

• Lifestyle Modifications: Avoid prolonged standing and incorrect postures. Include warm water baths to relax the knee muscles and improve blood circulation.
• Medications: Anti-inflammatory pain relievers and supplements to promote cartilage regeneration.
• Physical Therapy: Strengthen muscles around the knee under professional supervision.
• Injections: Administering lubricating injections into the joint to ease movement.
• Surgery: In severe cases, minimally invasive procedures or knee replacement may be required.

Emerging treatments, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, show promise in reducing cartilage erosion and promoting regeneration.

For effective management, consult a specialist to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.