Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that commonly affects the joints of the body, including the knees, hips, hands, and spine. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones within a joint begins to break down over time. Here is an overview of osteoarthritis, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options:
Causes of Knee Osteoarthritis
- Age: The risk of developing osteoarthritis increases with age. As we grow older, the cartilage naturally undergoes wear and tear, making it more susceptible to damage and degeneration.
- Joint overuse or repetitive stress: Engaging in activities that involve repetitive motions or placing excessive stress on the joints can accelerate the breakdown of cartilage.
- Joint injury: Previous joint injuries, such as fractures or ligament tears, can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis in the affected joint.
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese puts extra strain on weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and hips, contributing to cartilage degeneration.
- Genetics: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to developing osteoarthritis, as certain genes may affect the quality and integrity of cartilage.
- Other factors: Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, metabolic disorders, and joint abnormalities, can also increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis
- Joint pain: The primary symptom of osteoarthritis is joint pain, which typically worsens with activity and improves with rest. The pain may be described as aching, stiffness, or tenderness in the affected joint.
- Stiffness: Joint stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity or upon waking up in the morning, is common. It may take some time for the joint to “warm up” and become more flexible.
- Reduced range of motion: Osteoarthritis can lead to a decrease in joint mobility, making it difficult to fully bend or straighten the joint.
- Joint swelling: Inflammation within the joint can cause swelling, resulting in a feeling of fullness or puffiness around the affected area.
- Joint instability: As the disease progresses, the affected joint may feel unstable or give way, potentially causing falls or difficulty with balance.
Treatment Options for Knee Osteoarthritis
- Lifestyle modifications: Weight management, regular low-impact exercise (such as swimming or cycling), and avoiding activities that place excessive stress on the joints can help alleviate symptoms.
- Physical therapy: A physical therapist can develop an exercise program tailored to improve joint strength, flexibility, and stability, as well as provide pain management techniques.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may help reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, stronger pain medications or corticosteroid injections may be prescribed. Autologous protein solution (APS) injection is an effective way to provide pain reduction in patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis
- Assistive devices: Using braces, canes, or orthotics can provide support, stability, and pain relief for affected joints.
- Joint supplements: Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are commonly used dietary supplements that may help relieve osteoarthritis symptoms in some individuals, although their effectiveness is still debated. They are generally believed to be of little use.
- Surgery: In severe cases where conservative treatments fail, surgical options like joint arthroscopy, joint realignment, joint fusion, or joint replacement may be considered. Knee replacement surgery is a very effective way to restore the knee to a pain free functional status.
It is important to consult with a healthcare provider, such as an orthopaedic specialist, to receive an accurate diagnosis and develop a personalised treatment plan based on the severity of your osteoarthritis and its impact on your daily activities. They can guide you in managing your symptoms and improving your quality of life.
