Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of chronic knee pain and stiffness, particularly among older adults. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones in the knee joint wears down over time, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the joint. This progressive condition can significantly affect daily activities, from walking to climbing stairs, and may impact overall quality of life if left untreated.

What is Knee Osteoarthritis?

Knee osteoarthritis, often called degenerative joint disease, is a condition where the cartilage in the knee gradually deteriorates. Healthy cartilage allows smooth, pain-free movement by preventing the bones from rubbing against each other. When this cartilage breaks down, friction increases, causing pain and inflammation. Over time, the joint may become stiff, less mobile, and even develop bone spurs.

This condition usually develops slowly and worsens gradually, although sudden flare-ups can occur. While it is most common in older adults, younger individuals can also develop osteoarthritis due to injuries, overuse, or genetic factors.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can contribute to the development of knee osteoarthritis. Understanding these risk factors can help with prevention and early intervention.

• Age: The risk of osteoarthritis increases with age, as cartilage naturally weakens over time.
• Previous injuries: Knee injuries, such as ligament tears or fractures, can accelerate joint wear and tear.
• Obesity: Excess body weight adds stress to the knee joints, speeding up cartilage breakdown.
• Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis increases susceptibility.
• Repetitive stress: Occupations or sports that involve frequent kneeling, squatting, or heavy lifting can raise the risk.
• Misalignment: Conditions such as bow legs or knock knees can unevenly distribute weight across the joint.

Common Symptoms to Look Out For

Knee osteoarthritis symptoms typically develop gradually but can worsen over time. The most common signs include:

• Persistent knee pain during or after movement
• Stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity or in the morning
• Swelling around the joint
• Limited range of motion, making it difficult to bend or straighten the knee fully
• Grinding or cracking sensations (crepitus) during movement
• Occasional joint instability or weakness

If pain or stiffness begins to interfere with daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing for extended periods, it may indicate that osteoarthritis is progressing.

Diagnosing Knee Osteoarthritis

Diagnosing knee osteoarthritis involves a thorough medical evaluation, including:

1. Medical history and symptom review to identify pain patterns and risk factors
2. Physical examination to check joint mobility, tenderness, and swelling
3. Imaging tests such as X-rays to detect bone changes, joint space narrowing, and bone spurs
4. MRI scans in selected cases to evaluate cartilage and soft tissue damage

Accurate diagnosis helps determine the severity of the condition and guides treatment planning.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Early and moderate stages of knee osteoarthritis can often be managed without surgery. Treatment focuses on relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and maintaining joint mobility. Common non-surgical approaches include:

• Lifestyle modifications: Losing weight and avoiding high-impact activities can reduce stress on the joint.
• Physiotherapy: Strengthening muscles around the knee improves support and stability.
• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs can help control symptoms.
• Injections: Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections can provide temporary relief from pain and swelling.
• Assistive devices: Knee braces or walking aids can help reduce joint pressure during movement.

Knee Osteoarthritis Surgery

If non-surgical treatments are no longer effective, surgery may be recommended to restore function and alleviate pain. Surgical options for advanced knee osteoarthritis include:

• Arthroscopy: Minimally invasive surgery to clean out loose fragments or smooth damaged cartilage
• Osteotomy: Bone reshaping to realign the knee and reduce pressure on the affected side
• Partial knee replacement: Replacement of the damaged portion of the joint, preserving healthy areas
• Total knee replacement: Complete replacement of the knee joint with an artificial implant for long-term relief

A consultation with a knee specialist will determine the best surgical approach based on the severity of the disease, lifestyle, and personal goals.

Living with Knee Osteoarthritis

Managing knee osteoarthritis is a long-term process that requires a combination of medical care and lifestyle adjustments. Patients are encouraged to:

• Stay active with low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, or cycling
• Maintain a healthy weight to decrease stress on the knees
• Apply hot or cold compresses to manage pain and swelling
• Follow prescribed physiotherapy routines to improve flexibility and strength
• Schedule regular check-ups to monitor disease progression

Early management and consistent care can help patients remain mobile and independent for many years.

FAQs About Knee Osteoarthritis

Can knee osteoarthritis be cured?

There is currently no cure for knee osteoarthritis, as the cartilage damage is usually permanent. However, treatments can effectively manage symptoms, slow progression, and improve quality of life.

What is the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?

Osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear of the joint over time, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that attacks the joint lining. Both can affect the knees but have different causes and treatment approaches.

Does weather affect knee osteoarthritis symptoms?

Many patients report increased stiffness or pain in cold or damp weather. While the exact reason is unclear, changes in barometric pressure may affect joint tissues.

When should I see a doctor for knee pain?

Seek medical attention if knee pain lasts more than a few weeks, worsens over time, interferes with daily activities, or is accompanied by swelling and stiffness.

Can exercise worsen knee osteoarthritis?

High-impact exercises like running or jumping may aggravate symptoms, but low-impact activities such as swimming, cycling, or walking help maintain joint function and can reduce pain when done safely.