Your doctor will work with you to develop a personalized plan that may include a combination of nonsurgical treatments. Damage to the joint cartilage over time may result in the development or worsening of deformities of the knee, including knock knees and bowleg. 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.
The condition is progressive, meaning that it gets worse over time. That said, treatment options may help reduce pain, improve mobility, and boost your quality of life. Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is caused by wear and tear to the knee joint. This means that the cartilage — the cushioning in the joint that allows the bones to glide over each other — breaks down over time with use.
A special section covers a host of things you can do on your own to make coping with osteoarthritis easier. You’ll be introduced to helpful tools, pain-relieving exercises, smart food and menu ideas, and more. Staying active and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce symptoms and the risk of their progression. Education and counselling are important to help people manage their symptoms and work-related tasks. Exercise can strengthen the affected muscles and help mobility.
As the cartilage breaks down, the bones in your knee begin to rub together and cause pain. At this stage, it may be necessary to adapt or change daily activities to avoid pain. There may be some minor damage, but the bones are not rubbing or scraping against each other.
Knee joint osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people worldwide. This condition occurs when the protective cartilage in the knee wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. The symptoms of knee joint osteoarthritis can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that interferes with daily activities.
A healthy joint glides easily without pain because a smooth, elastic tissue called articular cartilage covers the ends of the bones that make up the joint. Stage three of OA is considered moderate, and the cartilage between the bones begins to show signs of wear. Some people may start to experience more pain during activity or after a period of increased activity. You may have trouble bending or straightening the affected joints.
You do not need to be symptom free before you consider returning to work. Continuing to go to work, or returning to work as soon as is possible for you, will help your recovery. Gradually getting back to your normal daily activities can help to build up your strength and stamina levels. Experts have identified some genes that might cause arthritis, including arthritis of the knee.
Effects of Knee Joint Osteoarthritis
Individuals with knee joint osteoarthritis may experience a range of effects on their daily life, including:
- Pain: Persistent pain in the knee joint, especially during movement or weight-bearing activities.
- Stiffness: Reduced flexibility in the knee joint, making it difficult to bend or straighten the leg.
- Swelling: Inflammation in the knee joint, leading to visible swelling and discomfort.
- Difficulty walking: Pain and stiffness may make it challenging to walk or climb stairs.
Managing Knee Joint Osteoarthritis
While knee joint osteoarthritis can be a chronic and debilitating condition, there are various ways to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Some strategies include:
- Exercise: Regular physical activity can help strengthen the muscles around the knee joint and improve flexibility.
- Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce stress on the knee joint and decrease pain.
- Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs can help alleviate symptoms.
- Physical therapy: Working with a physical therapist can help improve range of motion and reduce pain.
Frequently Asked Questions about Knee Joint Osteoarthritis
- Q: Can knee joint osteoarthritis be cured?
- A: While there is no cure for knee joint osteoarthritis, treatment options can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
- Q: What are the risk factors for developing knee joint osteoarthritis?
- A: Risk factors include age, obesity, previous knee injuries, and genetics.
- Q: When should I see a doctor about my knee pain?
- A: If you are experiencing persistent knee pain or difficulty performing daily activities, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for an evaluation.
