Osteoarthritis knee inflammation is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the cartilage in the knee joint breaks down, leading to pain, swelling, and limited mobility. This chronic degenerative disease can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, making even simple tasks like walking or climbing stairs difficult.
Chronic low-grade inflammation, in turn, promotes local inflammation, which increases pain and effusion in the joint [4]. Together, local and chronic low-grade inflammation correlate with clinical symptoms of OA, accelerate the progression of the disease and might even influence its onset [4, 5]. To date, no agent has been shown to have disease-modifying effects on the structural progression of OA. Current therapies, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, COX-2 selective agents, intra-articular hyaluronic acid injections, and opioids offer only symptomatic relief. Agents that have demonstrated potential efficacy for disease modification include the MMP inhibitor doxycycline [Brandt et al. 2005] and the combined lipoxygenase/cyclooxygenase inhibitor licofelone [Raynauld et al. 2009].
Causes of Osteoarthritis Knee Inflammation
Its signs and symptoms typically show up more often in individuals over age 50, but OA can affect much younger people, too, especially those who have had a prior joint injury, such as a torn ACL or meniscus. It typically develops slowly over time, but after such an injury, it can develop much more rapidly, within just a few years. OA is not an inevitable aging disease; some people never develop it. For some people, arthritis damages one side of the knee more than the other side. Removing or adding a wedge of bone in your shinbone or thighbone can help straighten this bowing and shift your weight to the undamaged part of your knee joint. Cartilage is a slippery tissue that provides a smooth surface for joint motion and acts as a cushion between the bones.
Prior to the 21st century, biochemical and immunological assays lacked the sensitivity to properly assess inflammatory markers in osteoarthritis patients. Using a new high-sensitivity assay for C-reactive protein (CRP), Spector et al. [5] showed a positive correlation between serum CRP and osteoarthritis disease progression, suggesting a systemic Inflammatory profile. This was early evidence of systemic inflammation in osteoarthritis. By the turn of the century, the broad notion of inflammation as a pathological driver of osteoarthritis, rather than just a secondary symptom, started to take hold [6].
After the study is finished, they will also be provided their data from the biochemical measurements, if they wish so. Persons interested in participating can register using an online registration form, by sending an email, or via telephone and the responsible dietitian will contact them. Dietetic group training and individual nutritional counselling are delivered by experienced, registered dietitians of the St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences.
The exact cause of osteoarthritis knee inflammation is not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified. These include:
Full weight-bearing, typically with a walker, under the supervision of a therapist, is also allowed. Active range of motion (ROM), terminal knee extensions, straight leg raises, and muscle strengthening exercises begin postoperative day one. In general, the patient must demonstrate safe ambulation with an assistive walking device on flat ground and stairs, the ability to safely transfer from bed to seated and standing positions, and adequate pain control prior to being discharged from the hospital. Patients are typically discharged to home or a skilled nursing facility. This is based on individual needs in consultation with social work.
- Age: The risk of developing osteoarthritis increases with age, as the cartilage naturally wears down over time.
- Obesity: Excess weight puts added stress on the knees, increasing the likelihood of cartilage damage.
- Joint injuries: Previous knee injuries, such as ligament tears or fractures, can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
The knee is one of the most common joints affected by osteoarthritis. Having this condition can make it difficult to walk, go up and down stairs, or perform other daily tasks. The good news is that treatments can lessen the severity of your symptoms.
Treatment Options
While there is no cure for osteoarthritis knee inflammation, there are several treatment options available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These include:
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Physical therapy: A physical therapist can recommend exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint, improving stability and reducing pain.
- Injections: Corticosteroid injections can help reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can osteoarthritis knee inflammation be prevented?
A: While it may not be possible to completely prevent osteoarthritis, maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and avoiding excessive strain on the knees can help reduce the risk of developing the condition.
Q: When should I see a doctor for knee pain?
A: If you are experiencing persistent knee pain, swelling, or stiffness, it is important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
