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Knee osteoarthritis, often referred to as "wear and tear" of the joint, is a progressive joint disease characterized by the gradual loss of cartilage in the knee. This cartilage breakdown leads to a narrowing of the joint space and, eventually, bone-on-bone contact. As the condition worsens, bony growths or spurs can form, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness in the affected knee.
Causes and Risk Factors of Knee Osteoarthritis
The main cause of knee osteoarthritis is the progressive deterioration and loss of cartilage, which serves as cushioning for the knee joint. As this cartilage wears down over time, it can eventually result in direct contact between the bones.
Individuals with the following factors may be at increased risk of developing knee osteoarthritis:
Previous Joint Injuries: Past knee injuries, such as torn ligaments or meniscus tears, can make the knee more prone to osteoarthritis.
Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis can raise the likelihood of developing the condition due to genetic predisposition.
Repetitive Stress: Engaging in activities that exert repetitive stress on the knee joint, such as certain sports or occupations, can contribute to osteoarthritis.
Age: The risk of knee osteoarthritis increases with age as cartilage naturally wears down over time.
Obesity: Excess body weight adds stress to the knee joints, accelerating cartilage breakdown and heightening the risk of osteoarthritis.
Joint Abnormalities: Structural issues in the knee, such as knock knees or bow legs, can play a role in developing osteoarthritis.
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Signs and Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis
Pain: Ongoing pain in the knee, particularly during movement or weight-bearing activities.
Stiffness: Stiffness in the morning or after prolonged periods of inactivity, such as sitting.
Swelling: Swelling around the knee joint that can increase with activity.
Reduced Range of Motion: Difficulty fully bending or straightening the knee.
Crepitus: A grating or crunching sensation when moving the knee.
Treatment and Management of Knee Osteoarthritis
Treatment and Management of Knee Osteoarthritis
Treatment for knee osteoarthritis focuses on protecting and offloading the joint, maintaining the strength of the surrounding musculature, and preserving joint mobility.
Strengthening and Stretching Exercises: Aim to reduce the load on the joint itself.
Weight Management: Helps decrease stress on the knee joint.
Activity Modification: Adopt lower-impact forms of exercise to minimize repetitive stress and impact on the knee.
Proper Footwear: Recommend supportive and well-cushioned shoes to distribute pressure more evenly and reduce impact on the knee.
Custom Foot Orthotics: Orthotics can address alignment issues and provide additional pressure redistribution to reduce stress on the knee.
Shockwave Therapy: Offers symptomatic relief and improves knee joint function.
Surgery: Considered for severe cases when conservative treatments are ineffective.
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