Knee Osteoarthritis: A Growing Concern in All Ages
Today, knee osteoarthritis is becoming increasingly common—much more than in the past. This may be due to lifestyle changes, including high-fat diets and lack of regular exercise. While this condition typically appears with age, nowadays even young adults are experiencing symptoms. That’s why it’s important to understand how to live in a way that helps prevent early joint degeneration.
What Is Knee Osteoarthritis?
Knee osteoarthritis is a condition where the cartilage in the knee joint gradually wears down. This cartilage acts as a cushion, reducing friction and allowing smooth joint movement. When it deteriorates, bones begin to rub against each other, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Causes of Knee Osteoarthritis
Aging: One of the most common causes. Over time, the knee joint undergoes wear and tear from long-term use.
Excess Body Weight: Being overweight adds pressure to the knee joint, affecting muscles, ligaments, and bones around the area. Maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce the risk.
Injury or Overuse: High-impact activities like long-distance running or heavy lifting may accelerate cartilage breakdown.
Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis can increase your risk of developing the condition.
Chronic Illnesses: Conditions like gout or rheumatoid arthritis can damage the joint over time, leading to osteoarthritis.
Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee Pain: Especially when moving, and usually relieved with rest.
Stiffness: Often felt in the morning or after prolonged sitting.
Swelling: Caused by inflammation in the tissues surrounding the joint.
Cracking or Grinding Sounds: This happens when bones rub against each other due to lost cartilage.
Limited Range of Motion: As the joint deteriorates, movement becomes more difficult.
It’s also important to note that knee pain isn’t always caused by osteoarthritis. In many cases, pain may result from muscular issues around the knee. Proper diagnosis by a skilled healthcare provider and consistent evaluation are key. Physical therapy and muscle-strengthening exercises may help relieve pain even when the cartilage is intact.
How to Care for and Treat Knee Osteoarthritis
Self-Care for Knee Osteoarthritis
1. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Reducing body weight helps decrease pressure on the knees, lowering the risk of joint degeneration and injury to surrounding muscles and ligaments.
2. Engage in Low-Impact Exercise
Light exercises such as walking, swimming, or yoga can strengthen the muscles around the knee joint and reduce pain. These activities are gentle on the knees, minimizing the risk of further damage.
3. Avoid Activities That Put Excessive Strain on the Knees
Avoid heavy lifting or prolonged squatting, as these movements increase pressure on the joints and may also lead to dizziness or discomfort when standing up.
Medical Treatments for Knee Osteoarthritis
1. Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter medications like paracetamol or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain. However, long-term use of painkillers may affect the liver. Therefore, it’s best to consult a doctor rather than self-medicate.
2. Disease-Modifying Medications
Drugs such as glucosamine and chondroitin may help slow down cartilage degeneration. These should only be taken under a doctor’s supervision.
3. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy strengthens the muscles surrounding the knee, improves flexibility, and enhances joint mobility. It’s an essential part of non-invasive treatment for osteoarthritis.
4. Surgery (Knee Replacement)
In severe cases where other treatments are ineffective, knee replacement surgery may be necessary. However, surgery is not a simple solution. It requires a detailed diagnosis by an experienced doctor, and post-surgical rehabilitation is crucial. Without proper physical therapy afterward, walking and normal joint function may remain limited.
Preventing Knee Osteoarthritis
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress
Exercise regularly to strengthen knee-supporting muscles
Avoid high-risk activities such as jumping or running on hard surfaces
Eat a nutritious diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health
Knee osteoarthritis is common, especially among the elderly and those with risk factors like obesity or joint overuse. Fortunately, many treatment options exist—from lifestyle changes and medication to physical therapy and surgery—designed to help patients regain their mobility and improve quality of life in the long term.
Source : https://arunhealthgarden.com/kneepain-2/6305/
