Knee Osteoarthritis: Causes and Symptoms

 

 

     Knee Osteoarthritis is still one of the most common conditions in older adults. As the body enters its 40s, it starts to lose balance, and when it comes to bones, which are essential for stability, standing tall, and strength, any fractures or degeneration lead to increased pain. What can be done to alleviate the intense pain? Orthopedic Center is ready to provide answers.

 

 

 

 

Knee Anatomy

     The knee joint consists of three bones: the femur (thigh bone), the tibia (shin bone), and the patella (kneecap). When the knee bends or straightens, the end of the femur rotates on the tibia and connects with the muscles in front of the knee. This allows us to move and perform daily activities as required while also reducing any twisting or bending of the muscles.

 

Knee Osteoarthritis

     Knee Osteoarthritis is a condition where the cartilage in the knee joint deteriorates, affecting the structural layer within the knee. As the cartilage wears away, it leads to joint stiffness. Movements cause bone friction, and if left untreated, it may result in severe pain, difficulty walking, trouble with stairs, inability to fully extend or bend the knee, muscle atrophy, and deformed knees.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Causes of Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis is a major cause of knee pain in older adults, and the pain arises from the following factors:

 

1.  Pressure on the Knee Joint

     Increased body weight applies greater pressure on the knee, which can cause pain when standing, walking, or moving, although sitting still might not result in pain.

 

2.  Previous Injuries

     Injuries such as a torn meniscus that were not properly treated can lead to osteoarthritis.

 

3.  Knee Inflammation

     Activities that excessively bend the knee, such as sitting cross-legged, squatting, biking with a low seat, or climbing stairs, put significant pressure on the knee joint, leading to inflammation and pain, even without standing or walking. Some people may experience swelling, warmth, or enlargement of the knee.

 

4.  Tight Muscles and Tendons around the Knee

     Inflammatory conditions may cause the knee to remain bent or result in increased walking, leading to muscle tightness around the knee and further pain.

 

5.  Infection and Autoimmune Disorders

     Bacterial infections in the knee, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and other conditions can damage cartilage in the knee.

 

 

 

 

 

Severity of Knee Osteoarthritis

     According to statistics from 2020, over 6 million people were diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis, largely due to excessive wear and tear starting from their younger years. The condition tends to increase as people age, and may also be linked to other conditions like congenital defects or rheumatoid arthritis.

 

Diagnosis of Knee Osteoarthritis

1.  Symptom and Flexibility Tests

     Doctors will check for pain, such as intermittent knee pain, pain when bearing weight, grinding sounds in the knee, and how much the knee can bend or straighten.

 

2.  Knee Appearance

     Doctors will examine the knee for deformities, checking if the legs bow outward or inward. Sometimes, walking or climbing stairs helps to identify abnormalities.

 

3.  X-rays

     X-rays are an effective way to diagnose osteoarthritis. In cases where knee replacement surgery is needed, doctors carefully analyze the images to choose the right type and size of the prosthesis.

 

4.  Physical Therapy or Alternative Surgery

     Doctors will consider treatment options that reduce the risk of complications both during and after surgery.

 

 

 

 

Treatment for Knee Osteoarthritis

1.  Medications

     If the patient is overweight, doctors may recommend weight loss to reduce pressure on the knee joint. Additionally, knee braces or walking aids may be used, along with medications to reduce inflammation or increase lubrication in the joint to reduce friction. Cold compresses and rest can also help manage inflammation.

 

2.  Knee Replacement Surgery

     In advanced cases of knee osteoarthritis that significantly impact daily life, knee replacement surgery is an effective treatment. Doctors assess the knee’s condition and determine the proper size and type of prosthetic knee to restore balance and natural movement.

 

3.  Physical Therapy

     Physical therapy involves using therapeutic devices along with heat therapy to relieve muscle tension and inflammation around the knee. Post-surgery physical therapy can help patients recover more quickly and effectively.

 

 

 

 

Self-Care for Knee Osteoarthritis

1.  Limit Walking and Climbing Stairs

     Avoid excessive walking, climbing stairs, or sitting in positions that strain the knee, such as squatting, cross-legged sitting, or kneeling, as this increases stress on the knee and worsens pain.

 

2.  Avoid Overuse of Painkillers

     Do not self-medicate with pain relievers, as excessive use can lead to kidney failure and stomach ulcers.

 

3.  Support the Knee with Exercises 

     Engage in appropriate exercises to slow down the degeneration of the knee joint.

 

Read more: Basic Exercises to Help Slow Down Knee Osteoarthritis

 

 

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It is important to maintain a healthy weight to strengthen muscles. If the knee or legs are severely deformed, surgery may be required for proper treatment.