Osteoarthritis, commonly known as wear and tear arthritis, is a degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people worldwide. One of the most common areas affected by osteoarthritis is the knee joint. Understanding the symptoms of osteoarthritis in the knee can help individuals seek appropriate treatment and manage their condition effectively.
Pain and Stiffness
Pain and stiffness are hallmark symptoms of osteoarthritis in the knee. Individuals may experience pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Stiffness in the knee joint, especially after periods of inactivity or in the morning, is also common. This can make it challenging to bend or straighten the knee fully.
One of the most common reasons for knee replacement surgery is severe pain from joint damage caused by wear-and-tear arthritis, also called osteoarthritis. An artificial knee joint has metal caps for the thighbone and shinbone, and high-density plastic to replace damaged cartilage. Your healthcare provider may start treatment during stage three with OTC medications, like NSAIDs for pain.
Having diabetes causes inflammation, which also weakens cartilage. Talk to a doctor or physical therapist before starting a new exercise program. Medical history, a physical examination and lab tests help to make up the OA diagnosis. While it may seem counterintuitive to walk or exercise when your knee feels stiff or swollen, walking and other low impact activities can be especially helpful for OA of the knee. Experts have identified some genes that might cause arthritis, including arthritis of the knee. They predict that there are more genes not yet discovered.
Most people have frequent pain when moving, walking, or doing other activities that use the joints. Stiffness in the joints may be worse in the morning and after prolonged sitting. Other treatment options may include strength training and supplements. You may need to wear a brace, shoe insert, wrap, or knee support. Researchers have been investigating whether stem cell therapy can regenerate cartilage in people with OA. At this stage, it may be necessary to adapt or change daily activities to avoid pain.
The amount of time it takes to reach subsequent stages can vary from person to person. You should discuss all of the treatment options for pre-OA with your healthcare provider. A doctor will recommend treatment type depending on individual needs and the stage of OA a person is experiencing.
Swelling
Swelling around the knee joint is another symptom of osteoarthritis. This swelling may be accompanied by warmth and tenderness in the affected area. In some cases, the knee joint may appear larger than usual due to fluid buildup within the joint.
It is important to consult with a healthcare provider if you experience any of these symptoms to receive an accurate diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Sometimes osteoarthritis of the knee can cause the muscles in the thighs to weaken, so your leg may look thinner. This weakness can make the joint feel unstable and could cause the knee to give way when you put weight on it. Being overweight is also linked to osteoarthritis, as this causes extra strain on weight-bearing joints, such as your knees. Injuries or other joint problems, such as gout, can make people more likely to get osteoarthritis. The genes we inherit from our parents can also increase the risk of the condition developing. Osteoarthritis is a progressive disease that is generally broken down into four stages.
