Arthritis Knee

Knee arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, is a common condition that occurs when the protective cartilage on the ends of your knee bones wears down over time. This condition can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased mobility in the knee joint.

Types of Knee Arthritis

Osteoarthritis

The most common type, often related to aging, where the cartilage gradually deteriorates.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

An autoimmune condition where the body's immune system attacks the joints, leading to inflammation and damage.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Arthritis that occurs after an injury to the knee, such as a fracture, ligament injury, or meniscus tear.

Symptoms

– Pain: Especially during or after movement.
– Stiffness: Often more noticeable in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
– Swelling: Caused by inflammation of the knee joint.

– Decreased Range of Motion: Difficulty in fully bending or straightening the knee.
– Grinding Sensation: Feeling or hearing a grinding noise during knee movement due to the rough surfaces of the cartilage.

Diagnosis

– Physical Examination: Checking for swelling, tenderness, range of motion, and stability.
– Imaging Tests: X-rays can show cartilage loss, bone spurs, and changes in bone shape. MRI may be used to assess cartilage and soft tissues around the knee.

– Laboratory Tests: Blood tests or joint fluid analysis may be used to rule out other conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

Treatment Options

Lifestyle Changes

- Weight Management: Reducing weight to lessen stress on the knee joint.
- Exercise: Low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, or walking to strengthen muscles around the knee.
- Physical Therapy: To improve flexibility and range of motion.

Medications

- Pain Relievers: Acetaminophen or NSAIDs like ibuprofen to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Corticosteroids: Injections into the knee to provide temporary pain relief.
- Viscosupplementation: Injection of hyaluronic acid to improve joint lubrication.

Surgical Options

- Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to remove damaged cartilage.
- Osteotomy: Cutting and reshaping bones to relieve pressure on the knee joint.
- Partial or Total Knee Replacement: Replacing damaged knee parts or the entire joint with artificial components.

Prevention

– Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active with regular exercise, avoiding injuries, and

managing conditions like diabetes can help reduce the risk of developing knee arthritis.

If you suspect you have knee arthritis or are experiencing symptoms, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your condition.

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