If you are experiencing pain and stiffness in your knees, it could be a sign of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a common condition that affects the joints, causing them to become inflamed and painful. The knees are particularly susceptible to osteoarthritis due to the amount of weight they bear and the stress they undergo.
Your practitioner may recommend OTC medications, such as NSAIDs, for pain. You may also need to make lifestyle changes, like losing weight and doing low-impact exercises. Some people do not have any symptoms or signs during stage one. If your osteoarthritis hasn’t improved within 6 weeks, or it’s got worse, after following this advice, talk to a healthcare professional about your symptoms.
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis in Your Knees
The space between the joints is much smaller, and there is less synovial fluid to lubricate the joints. Treatment of pre-OA will vary and depends on other health factors. Your healthcare provider may recommend over-the-counter (OTC) medications, supplements, and lifestyle changes. This information may be useful for those who have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis of the knee. People who are experiencing new or ongoing symptoms should contact their healthcare professional. That cartilage takes a beating, though, and small tears naturally develop as the malleable material grows more rigid over time.
The rubbing results in pain, swelling, stiffness, less ability to move, and, sometimes, the formation of bone spurs. About 1 in 7 people diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis will receive some sort of injection to treat the painful, sometimes debilitating, symptoms of the disease. Yet studies in recent years have found that most of these injections actually do very little to improve osteoarthritis in the knees and are only slightly more effective than a placebo.
Treatment usually includes a combination of therapies and lifestyle choices. Your treatment options will depend on your individual needs. These include your medical history, level of pain, and the impact of OA on your daily life. Several types of drugs are useful in treating arthritis of the knee. Because people respond differently to medications, your doctor will work closely with you to determine the medications and dosages that are safe and effective for you. Although there is no cure for arthritis, there are many treatment options available to help manage pain and keep people staying active.
Some doctors are trying botulinum to help treat joint pain. The theory is that it might permanently deaden nerves and offer relief. If your doctor wants to treat the osteoarthritis in the knee with surgery, the options are arthroscopy, osteotomy, and arthroplasty.
The most common symptoms of osteoarthritis in the knees include:
- Pain and stiffness in the knee joint
- Swelling and tenderness around the knee
- Difficulty moving the knee or bending it fully
- A grating sensation when moving the knee
Lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and exercising, continue to be important during stage three. Diagnosis during stage three relies on symptoms and a physical exam. Most people have frequent pain when moving, walking, or doing other activities that use the joints.
Treatment Options for Osteoarthritis in Your Knees
There are several treatment options available for managing osteoarthritis in your knees:
- Physical therapy and exercise: Strengthening the muscles around the knee can help support the joint and reduce pain.
- Medications: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs can help manage symptoms.
- Injections: Corticosteroid injections can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace the damaged joint.
Frequently Asked Questions About Osteoarthritis in Your Knees
Q: Can osteoarthritis be prevented?
A: While osteoarthritis cannot always be prevented, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding injuries can help reduce your risk.
Q: How does weather affect osteoarthritis in the knees?
A: Some people with osteoarthritis find that changes in weather can worsen their symptoms, but this varies from person to person.
Q: When should I see a doctor about my knee pain?
A: If you are experiencing persistent pain, swelling, or difficulty moving your knee, it is important to see a doctor for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.
