Discover the transformative impact of understanding Knee Osteoarthritis (Knee OA), a condition that influences not just our mobility, but also our overall quality of life and livelihood.
As we age, many of us have heard stories of older people experiencing knee pain and difficulty walking, often attributed to Knee OA.
Picture this : the gel cushioning between your joints undergoes wear and tear, leading to uncomfortable friction between bones, resulting in pain, stiffness, and swelling. Knee OA is also referred to as the ” degenerative joint diseas of the knee “.
What are the causes of Knee OA?
Knee OA is referred to as a wear and tear disease. These are the factors that can increase your risk to Osteoarthritis :
- Age : The risk of Knee OA increases with age
- Sex : Women are more likely to have knee OA than men
- Obesity : Being overweight adds stress to your knees
- Injuries : Any injuries, even one that occured many years ago may increase your risk to osteoarthritis.
- Repeated stress : Frequent stress on your knee from your jobs or sports may increase your risk to osteoarthritis
- Genetics : Some people inherit a tendency to develop osteoarthritis
- Other conditions : Certain pre-existing dieases may increase the chances of developing osteoarthritis
Symptoms of Knee OA
- Pain : Affected joints might hurt during movement or activities
- Stiffness : Joints may feel stiff especially in the morning or after sitting for a long time
- Swelling : This is caused by inflammation around the joint
- Creaking and grating : You may hear crackling noises when you bend your knee
- Bone Spurs : Extra bits of bone can form around the affected joint
- Loss of motion : You may lose the ability to fully bend and straighten knee over time
Diagnosing Knee OA
Your health care providers will ask for and carried our the following :
- Medical History
- Family History
- Swelling, warmth or redness around the joint
- Physical Examination
- Gait problems (The way you walk)
Your doctor might recommend Imaging test such as :
- X-rays
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Treatment of Knee OA
Osteoarthritis cannot be reversed but treatments can help reduce pain and move better.
- Medications : To reduce pain and inflammation
- Physiotherapy : Prescribed exercises that strengthen your muscles, increase flexibility, and ease pain, guiding you towards improved mobility
- Surgical Interventions : Knee replacement being the common procedure done for Knee OA. Other options such as athroscopy and osteotomy may also be considered. (Consult with an orthopaedic specialist to find the best surgical treatment for you)
Discover a non-surgical path to find a relief from knee pain and Knee Osteoarthritis! Our team of skilled physiotherapists is here to guide you on your journey towards improved knee health.
Let us help you explore personalised solutions and exercises that strengthen muscles, enhance flexibility, and reduce discomfort. Reach out to us today and take the first step towards a pain-free and active lifestyle!