Knee Osteoarthritis | Cause, Symptoms, Treatment

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis in the knee. Also known as “knee oa”, it is a degenerative “wear-and-tear” type of arthritis that occurs most often in people 50 years of age and older, but may occur in younger people too.

In osteoarthritis, the cartilage in the joint gradually wears away. As the cartilage wears away, it becomes frayed and rough, and the protective space between the bones decreases. This can result in bone rubbing on bone, and produce painful bone spurs. Osteoarthritis develops slowly and the pain it causes worsens over time.

What Causes Knee Osteoarthritis?

• Age: The ability of cartilage to heal decreases as a person gets older.
• Weight: Excess weight increases pressure on the joints, in particular the knees.
• Genetics.
• Gender: Women aged 55+ are more likely than men to get knee oa.
• Repetitive stress injuries: Depending on occupation.
• Athletics: Serious knee injuries in sports.
• Other illnesses: Such as metabolic disorders.

What are the Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis?

• Knee joint becomes stiff and swollen, making difficult to bend and straighten the knee.
• Pain and swelling may be worse in the morning, or after sitting or resting.
• Vigorous activity may cause pain to flare up.
• The knee may “lock” or “catch” during movement.
• It may creak, click, snap or make grinding noise (crepitus).

Diagnosis

Based on the history and symptoms of the injury presented, our physiotherapists will perform several tests to confirm the diagnosis. Sometime other imaging such as X-ray, MRI and bone scan can help detect signs of Knee OA.

How is Knee Osteoarthritis Treated?

• Pain relief & inflammation control:
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Hot and cold treatments
  • Injections of corticosteroids
• Series of exercises to stabilize and strengthen the hip, knee and ankle, such as these to reduce the force through the knees.
• Strengthen and stabilize the lumber-pelvic region.
• Modify sporting and daily activities, such as walking up and down stairs and hills.
• Lifestyle and home remedies:
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Keeping active
  • Healthy supplements
• Surgery (when other treatments don’t work!)

As always, we are here to answer your questions and treat your pain. Get in touch!